I’m looking to download a good instant messaging software, but I don’t know which is best for my needs.
I’m interested in one that can provide safety of security first and foremost, because my last computer was actually destroyed by a virus that I’m pretty sure snuck in through Windows Live Chat 7 [or 8, I think]; I used to get messages from people I didn’t even know sending me links to places that were probably virus-filled ad or spam sites. I’m on a brand new notebook now, and I want to ensure that it is as safe as I can get it.
Applications, extras, nifty features, none of them really matter. I’m just looking for one with safe usability.
Thanks,
~I.
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Also: I saw pidgin is able to intercommunicate with like 12 different IM software suites. Out of curiosity, is it any better for what I want or is it just for people who have a lot of friends on different IM softwares?


Which chat site do you use most? try using the web version – I assume these would be safe, as these typically does not require any software installation on your computer.
I trust Yahoo IM as they are extremely careful in insuring the Yahoo
name remains trusted and continually offer updates to their programs
that will keep users protected.
I do not access Chat rooms at all as the first time I did, I was flooded
with messages about viewing webcams. Primarily, 1/2 the people in
chat rooms are not there to chat but, access them solely, to advertise
their pay web-cams as well as, try to gain personal information to sell
to other similar sites.
I’m not familiar with the other chat programs simply because Yahoo
has always offered me what I require to email, IM, video, voice over
computer etc.