Many instant messaging problems can be eliminated if you are careful when you register. Some companies are very aggressive in trying to make you give out more personal information than you should, so it's a good idea to have an adult sit with you when you are registering. Make sure that your permission is required before anyone can add you to their IM list. And avoid those "personal profiles!"
Create a buddy list of people you know.
Only let people join your IM list if you know them in the "real world." Some IM software have a "chat with friends around the world" option, but remember these aren't friends, they're strangers who may harass you.
Use IM software that doesn't offer access to chat rooms.
Many IM programs have access to chat rooms that aren't suitable for kids and teens. Some programs link to chat rooms right on the opening screen, even if you have said "no" to the chat option when registering. To avoid this problem, check your IM program carefully to make sure you can "opt out" of chat options.
Don't share your IM username and password with real life or online friends.
Often kids will share their IM passwords with friends, who then misuse their accounts. Choose passwords that can't be easily guessed by others. Random combinations of letters and numbers offer the best protection against password theft.
Report pornographic "spam" (junk mail) to the instant messaging service provider.
Even if you have set your IM program to only accept messages from people on your contact list, you may still receive pornographic spam or junk mail. Use the "Ignore" function to block the sender and then report the spam to your IM service provider.
Disable any file-sharing options.
Most IM programs offer a file-sharing option that allows users to download files to your computer's hard drive. Serious viruses can be sent to your computer this way. If you really want to be able to receive files from friends, make sure that the file sharing settings are set so that files can't be downloaded to your computer without your permission.
What about Netiquette and Instant Messaging?
Instant messaging can be lots of fun, but sometimes the jokes and humour in your messages can fall flat. Online conversations are different from real-world conversations. Because the person you are instant messaging can't see your face or hear your tone of voice it's easy for jokes to be misunderstood especially if you're using putdowns or insults as humour.
Problems can also occur if you:
- use IM to gossip and bad-mouth others
- use the password or IM name of a friend and then pretend to be them online
© 2005 Media Awareness Network.
