When you are on the computer using one of these programs, you can simply double click your contact's name and type a message to them in real time without having to wait for them to read an email. As long as the person you want to contact is online using the same IM program, you will be able to initiate an online "conversation."
Popular IM Versions
The most popular instant messenger programs are Yahoo, Microsoft MSN, and AOL - which have all been available for quite some time. These programs are all widely used which makes them vulnerable to attack from hackers who are eager to send worms or computer viruses to others' computers.
For computer thugs, the use of IM has become even more popular for sending a virus than through email simply because people have become increasingly aware of email security. Additional computer vulnerability is created because many people leave their IM's on all day, even when they aren't using the computer.
Learning Safety Tips
That isn't to say you need to close down your IM program and give it up entirely. Rather, you should learn how to use it safely so that your computer stays uninfected while you are on it. It comes to a matter of using common sense. Just as you wouldn't open an attachment in your email from someone you don't know, it is as imperative to refrain from clicking on links that people send to you in an IM message.
Configure your settings so no one can contact you at all unless you have personally added them to your contact list. That way you will not inadvertently click on a link carelessly on the incorrect assumption that you know the person sending it to you.
If you inadvertently click a link that downloads a virus to your computer, it will continue to eat away at your data until it is finished collecting all your information or spreading dangerous programs on it.
Other Security Programs
You will find a degree of security in some of the newer firewalls, anti-spyware programs, and anti-virus programs that work with your IM programs to help repel or capture and destroy potential viruses.
If such software doesn't clearly state that it works with instant messenger programs then most likely it does not - so try to purchase one in which IM program protection is included.
Viruses and worms are prevalent on the Internet, and hackers are very persistent in their attacks against computers. It is up to you to make sure you have every security loophole blocked and your computer has maximum protection.
Many people are confused by the seemingly maze of different types of security software needed on their home computer and therefore don't want to bother. They often don't understand what each type accomplishes, the protections they offer, or the limitations of each. Just a little time committed to self-education will pay off in the long-run.
Safety And Security International
If you have a van that you use for your commercial or personal needs, then getting van insurance is mandatory. Cheap van insurance deals are available online and offline that would meet your various needs and budget. Some companies offer you discounts only when you have all the accounts like life, office and home insurance with that particular company. Some companies consider your insurance for discounts only when you have joined roadside assistance program or have undergone a course on defense driving.
You will be offered insurance quotes only after they are worked out by the company by taking into consideration the various factors such as proximity of your home and work, safe neighborhood, driving conditions, van usage, mileage and model of the van. You can find a cheap van insurance deal according to your age, report card or student status. So, you can compare and match the insurance quotes of different insurance companies before signing up a van insurance policy.
You will find that online van insurance deals are not only cheaper but also satisfy all your requirements. By logging on to the insurance company's website you will be able to get free insurance advice, information about discounts and quotes with the help of an online calculator.
The insurance company also provides you the opportunity to renew your van insurance policy at a discount in case it is expired. Also, you may have to pay a higher premium if you own a commercial van and your vehicle is put under the high insurance category.
As an effect of competition in the insurance industry, you will be surely benefited by many trustworthy and cheap online van insurance offers. As a new customer, you can always expect a good discount from the insurance company when you buy an insurance policy through online shopping after consulting the quotes at the comparison sites.
A vehicle like van is put to use from dawn to dusk to meet your personal and commercial affairs. Also, you can conveniently take your family out or conduct your business by serving the clients comfortably with a van. Remember, if you are commercially utilizing the vehicle then you face a higher risk of accidents.
Normally, the insurance companies charge a high premium as the risk involved in a commercial vehicle is more. In case your van gets damaged due to an accident, the insurance company will come to your rescue to help you in running your business smoothly, by providing you a temporary van. Some insurance companies even protect you from financial or reputation loss from the business by supplementing your income.
You get the extra benefit of a guarantee from the insurance company on any repairs after 5 years of the date of commencement of insurance. Apart from this you also get the benefits of 24 hour help for windscreen replacement, repair, accident assistance, claim and recoveries. If you want to secure your financial freedom or wish to build the business in a secured environment, you should go for a cheap online van insurance deal which is readily available with the click of a mouse.
Both Darrin Johnson & Robert D. Thomson are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.