Final Conclusion

From our research as well as studies on Instant Messaging, we have gained a lot of information and knowledge on the topic. In addition to that, we have also arrived at a final conclusion which is as follows:

Instant Messaging is a useful tool for communication as mentioned in the studies that we have conducted. Certain Instant Messagaging networks also provide other useful features that make Instant Messaging a more convenient and helpful communication tool. For example, file sharing features allow people to share and access information from within the Instant Messaging client itself, thus eliminating the need to use other methods such as thumbdrives or external web services. Also, group conversations allow multiple people to communicate with each other simultaneously instead of a one-to-one conversation. This would be very efficient and similar to real-life conferences. This potential manifests itself in its ability to facilitate communication over distances, whether great or small, uniting people in textual speech and breaking the barriers presented by other methods of communication, such as the cost of telephoning and the time lapses of electronic mail. Bringing people closer and bridging the gap between them is one of the powerful implementations of Instant Messaging.

Although Instant Messaging presents to its users many useful features, it also has some attributes that make it somewhat dangerous and unsafe. Due to the fact that the messages are sent over the Internet, a medium that is not completely reliable in maintaining security and privacy, these messages can be intercepted and might be accessed by unauthorized third-parties. In addition to that, due to the anonymous nature of the Internet and the resulting fact that people can pose as someone they are not, there is always a risk posed in revealing confidential information over Instant Messaging. For example, a person with ulterior motives might impersonate someone whom you know and from that gain confidential personal information such as bank account numbers and PINs. The ravages of information leaking and fraud are a very real hazard in Instant Messaging that is not to be underestimated. Such danger can also take the form of Trojan viruses and other malicious spyware that cause various computer maladies of varying severity. It is advisable to play safe and be cautious at all times when using Instant Messaging, or rather, any implementation of the Internet to preserve the security of the user and the computer. Responsible use of such software is the best way to reduce the chances of a computer crisis.

©The Probl(IM)s Group 2008