While many people have become used to e-mail being a source of potential problems (spam, viruses, phishing,…) most of them are not so cautious when it comes to using instant messaging applications.
Although the problem is not so big as with e-mail, attackers are switching to IM to evade the filters we are using when dealing with mails. Instead of spam, we might be receiving spim (spam + IM). Luckily, most of this programs allow us to block messages from unknown senders. This is really recommended just in case this attacks get more common.
Also, viruses which used e-mail to distribute themselves are turning into instant messaging to spread themselves, sending the files as if they are coming from someone you know and infecting you when you open the received file.
As with e-mail, the best recommendation is to keep your computer software up to date, from the operating system to the instant messaging programs. Also, take care with received files which were not requested, If you receive any of these files you can ask the sender if they send it on purpose.
Finally, the use of antivirus and antispyware will help you to keep your computer clean.
From | PC Doctor.
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