What is “instant messaging”?
Instant messaging, frequently referred to as “IM”, describes software programs that provide a venue for continuous, text-based electronic conversation in real time. It can be one-on-one or with a number of people.

What programs are considered instant messaging?
One of the originals was ICQ, with the most popular ones nowadays Microsoft Messenger, AOL AIM, Yahoo! Chat and Google Talk. Other software programs combine the popular instant messaging programs into one interface, such as Trillian.

How much does it cost?
Most basic versions of IM software is available for free.

What are the dangers?
With no way to verify the identity of participants, IM is one of the primary means that online predators use to start conversations and eventually lure their prey. There are cyber stalkers, criminals, and other predators all over, from pedophiles posing as children to gain the confidence of minors to prostitutes flirting with men in order to lure them unwittingly into a financial exchange for sex.

What is being done about instant messaging predators?
Dateline's Chris Hanson has been hosting the program "To Catch a Predator" on NBC, revealing the sinister truth about online pedophiles and opening the eyes of the world to this previously overlooked issue. By shedding light on these hot-button topics and revealing the true depredations of online criminals, Chris Hanson's Perverted Justice crime squad is fighting back against the people who would victimize the innocent and unsuspecting.

How can I protect myself or my children from predators on instant messaging?
Never, ever allow your children to meet alone with someone they’ve only chatted with on IM. Make sure to spend the time educating your children about the dangers of predators who pose as someone they are not. If you are an adult and wish to meet someone you’ve only had online chat exchanges with, meet for the first time in a group setting. With BadScreenNames.com, you can join the fight against online predators, and help protect others from Internet crime.

What else can I do?
Most IM programs have an option to keep a history of prior chats. You and your children can agree that you will use the histories to make sure they are safe while still respecting your children’s privacy. Consult with the IM program’s help section on how to do this.