Computer Security: Instant Message Filter
Every computer that accesses the Internet is potentially at risk. Instant messaging software is one of the biggest vulnerabilities todays companies face. Instant messaging filters help companies keep their networks secure by monitoring the messaging applications that are installed on company computers.
Any company that doesnt believe instant messaging is a problem has not seen the latest figures on instant message usage in the workplace. Numerous studies place the use of instant messaging applications by corporate employees as high as 80 percent. The drop in productivity found in most employees when they instant message is cause enough for concern, but the security evasion techniques built into todays instant messaging applications is an even bigger reason to worry.
The Solution
Instant message filters solve the problem. Using comprehensive signature recognition technology, IM filters can identify employees that install, use, and abuse instant messaging while at work. More importantly, filters can prevent employees from installing instant message filters altogether.
Todays IM filters are flexible. The best instant messaging filters will allow administrators to set IP addresses that should be excluded from the filtering process. Executives that use IM technology for business purposes need not be affected by an IM filter.