Question

If they are both text protocols, why is instant messaging traffic riskier than e-mail?

A) More viruses are coded for IM.
B) IM has no business purpose.
C) IM traffic has to travel outside of the organization
to a server.
D) Emoticons.

Answer 1

IM traffic is riskier than email because it typically involves third-party services that may store data externally, it is less formal, potentially leading to oversharing of sensitive information, and the environment is less controlled, posing a greater risk for viruses and malware.

Step-by-step explanation:

Instant messaging (IM) traffic can be considered riskier than e-mail for several reasons. Unlike email, IM communication is often perceived as more informal and real-time, leading to the potential for more sensitive information to be shared without the same level of consideration that one might give to an email. While email is usually sent between specified recipients and can be protected by organizational security measures, IM traffic often involves third-party services that may store conversations outside the organization, thereby increasing the risk of data exposure. Viruses and malware can also be a concern with IM because of the frequent exchange of files and links in a less controlled environment, amplifying the risk in comparison to more regulated email exchanges.