Home - Back to questions

I've heard that "instant messaging" is a quick way to send and receive messages.
Is it any more or less secure than email?
Can my abuser read the messages I've sent and received through instant messaging?

Instant messaging (sometimes called IM) is the ability to easily see whether a friend is connected to the Internet and, if they are, to exchange messages with them. Generally it is good practice not to transmit sensitive and confidential information through Instant Messengers, since IM could be intercepted and read.
If you use instant messaging and your abuser has access to your computer, be aware of and make use of the privacy features of the program you are using. MSN messenger, ICQ, AOL each have slightly different privacy protection features.


Dacorum women’s Aid:
Call

08 088 088 088

(10am – 8pm Mon to Fri)

All other times

Samaritans
01923 233333

The Borough of Dacorum covers:
Kings Langley, Apsley,
Hemel Hempstead, Berkhamsted, Tring and surrounding villages.

About us

What we can offer

How to get involved

Important Links

Contact us

Make sure you DO NOT have your computer set to automatically keep a history of your messages if you are concerned about your abuser reading them.


For example, if you are using MSN messenger, select Options and then Messages; unclick the checkbox for message history.