Question

50) Which of the following is a risk of using IM for business communication?

A) less versatile than text messaging
B) security problems, including computer viruses and network infiltration
C) potential for misuse as a one-to-many broadcast method higher than that for e-mail
D) more expensive than phone calls and e-mails
E) not widely available

Answer 1

The primary risk of using IM for business communication is security problems, such as computer viruses and network infiltration. IM is also susceptible to issues of miscommunication without nonverbal cues and requires careful consideration of the audience and potential unintended recipients.

Step-by-step explanation:

The student has asked about the risks associated with using Instant Messaging (IM) for business communication. One of the key concerns with using IM is security problems, including computer viruses and network infiltration. Unlike traditional face-to-face communication or phone calls, digital communications via IM can be susceptible to cyber threats. This can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive business information or disruptions in business operations due to malware. Additionally, IM lacks the ability to clearly convey tone and emotion compared with in-person interactions, which can lead to miscommunication, especially when not using emoticons, which may not always be appropriate for business contexts. Lastly, while text messages and IM are convenient, they require consideration of the audience and unintended recipients that could misinterpret the message or be privy to confidential information.