Can someone eavesdrop on my IM conversations?

[axelkan]

Anyone can read it, since AIM is public service. The only way to protect your privacy is to use secure closed server (LAN servers, e.g.) and encryption

[izzy]

Sorry I haven’t been on in a while I forgot what the website was.

I have a pc and he has a Mac now again I was on his computer yesterday and he wanted me to find a previous YouTube video so I went to his history to find it and my aim log with about 6 different ppl where on there. He has to be getting it thru the internet, how do it stop it or return the spying? revenge is evil
btw he doesn’t use aim he uses apples equivalent.

Thanks!

[kelseyc]

That means he is using iChat. If you don't want your chat logs to be recorded, then axelkan is correct. You need a secure private network. Brosix offers a free instant messaging program where your conversations can't be followed, since it's on a secure server. You can download the free version at www. brosix.org (it wouldn't let me post the link)

If you still want to use your same messaging program, I may not be able to help you.

[clairx]

Originally Posted by seahorse

Can someone please tell me if I am chatting on AIM with a friend is there anyway a third person can be reading it without our knowledge?? Thanks for any help!!

Yes, and if you are using wireless at school, work or the local cafe everyone else on the wireless can see your stuff too. I always use a personal vpn to prevent this and keep my conversations private. It basically encrypts your whole connection so everything goes to a remote server hundreds of miles away before hitting the internet unencrypted. Nobody near you can see anything you are doing. I like knowing that people around me can't spy on me.

[fukudome]

Originally Posted by clairx

Nobody near you can see anything you are doing. I like knowing that people around me can't spy on me.

Of course, you're assuming that your computer isn't compromised (via a hardware or software keylogger) or that a video camera above you isn't watching all your activities.

Using a private vpn (a "trusted" third party) is dangerous because you're tunneling through someone who claims to protect your privacy but at the same time has access to all your activities.

If you can trust a third party just use SSH tunnels through a free shell provider (Bshellz.net or Silence is Defeat).

If you'd rather go the purchase route I suggest using a cheaper provider than the one recommend by clairX: Santrex Don't trust me though, shop around!