While using AIM, be careful of links to sites with spyware, viruses, and trojans. Its recommended that you do not click any links sent by anyone not on your buddy list.
Aim Viruses
An Aim Virus, sends links to buddies on your buddy list. You may not be aware that you are sending links until someone notifies you about it. In order to remove viruses, use anti-trojan/spyware removers. You can also use the Aim Fix removal tool. Read More..
Spim
You may recieve Spam from different screen names, usually they are identifiable by the way their screen name is set up. Read More..
Phishing
You may recieve IMs from phishers who send a false IM claiming to be an AOL Representative. They generally ask you for your screen name and password. AOL staff will never IM someone for their password. Read More..
Stalkers and Trolls
You may recieve IMs from cyberstalkers and trollers who may verbally abuse you. To defend yourself you can block users, or file a court case if it is severe. Read More..
Encryption
Some Aim Software allows the use of encryption. This is to prevent hackers from reading IM conversations. Aim Encryption is supported in Aim 5.9 and Aim Pro.