30: Instant messaging (IM)

Young people chat online more than anything else. They use many different free instant messaging tools like facebook, messanger, viber, whatsapp, hike are examples.

They communicate with friends, parents and teachers. Some tools allow instant voice, and photos and videos. Cyberbullying, cyberstalking and harassment often occur using I m applications .It is also possible them to send inappropriate messages as well as sending wrong message to wrong person creating problems.

If they are not careful they may be sending viruses. When things go wrong it’s harder to trace IM than an e-mail as they don’t use the traditional headers used by e-mail. IM accounts, like many free web-based e-mail accounts, can be open by anyone and shut down fast. No proof of who you really are is required. And, while chat rooms often receive the biggest blame for online sexual predators,

Banning use of IM is not an option as young people would feel isolated from their friends. They wouldn’t know what is going on in their community. It’s much better to screen out strangers and students not to respond when a stranger says “Hi” .Block and report any misuse as well.