Instant Messaging
Instant Messaging is a great way to stay in touch with friends. However chat programs come with a lot of potential dangers that you should be aware of before you start.
- Risks:
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- People aren't always who they say they are
- People are persuasive; don't be convinced to download anything from a "kind" stranger
- Conversations can be saved and held against you in the real world. Behave as you would in the real world when you're online
- How to Instant Message safely:
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- Never give out passwords, credit card details or personal information
- Block strangers
- Leave your online profile blank or where you have to enter data to use the system, do not enter information that allows you to be identified personally
- Disable automatic downloads
- Be very wary about sharing any personal info about your life to a stranger
- Keep your Instant Messaging software up-to-date
For Virus and Spyware protection, Madasafish recommends:
