Just about everyone born in the last 25 to 30 years uses AOL Instant Messenger to communicate with their friends instantaneously at any time of day. Its easy to see how AIM is quickly becoming a large part of our everyday lives but users should understand the costs that are associated with using this software.
Each and every message sent via AIM travels across the internet in plain text, which is a huge problem for those concerned with security. When sending information across the internet there are generally two ways of sending it, in plain text or encrypted text. Sending a message in plain text does not protect you message in any way, and anyone with the proper tools can see what your message is. In other words, someone could be ease dropping on your aim conversation without your knowledge right now! OMGZ.
However if you encrypt the messages you send out only the intended recipient will be able to read them. We can do this by installing two pieces of software Pidgin and Pidgin Encryption. Pidgin is an AIM client which will replace the AOL version of AIM. It has lots of features and can do everything AOL AIM does and more! It also allows you to add plug ins such as Pidgin Encryption that add on even more features. Theres instructions on how to install both programs on their websites and you can contact me as well if you have any trouble.
Don't forget to tell your friends about this software because you can only use the encryption with other people who have the same software.
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2 comments:
Yes, I agree Tim, encryption is indeed a smart method we should all begin deploying for our every-day matters. So, in essence, AIM is just another vulnerable program, but we can prevent most of it's exploitation by using encryption as you had said Tim. Good post, and folks.. especially with businesses, consider this post, as it is serious matter!
Tim, its James. One thing I learned when doing the research for my paper is that AIM provides a secure client as well, its called AIM Pro, in case people prefer the AIM interface over Pidgin's. But of course Pidgin is an awesome program too.
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