AIM Privacy???

[ayappa]

Does anybody know someone can view a conversation (on aim) after they have closed the window?
My friends parents have been reading all of our conversations for a long time.

Does anybody have any ideas/guesses to how this is possible?

Thanks for your time,

 

[Mav451]

Well, this is probably through a logging function. Many IM clients have this feature...its been around probably since as early as 2000 (well in mainstream use anyway). But the prevalence has exponentially increased the past few years, so yes, it is probably as simple as that.

(presumably it is just as simple to "turn off" the logging function)

If your friend's parents are using more sophisticated spying tools (keyloggers, etc.), than it may be more complicated, but I doubt it if his/her parents are NOT tech savvy.

 

[macmaniacttt]

If you're using iChat - Then your friend has the Save Chat Transcripts feature on - go to ichat prefs and then go to messages and at the bottom there it is

--david

 

[musicpyrite]

There might be a possibility that someone is using key loggers.

I know the AIM 'headquaters' saves all conversations, thats why they are being used in high profile lawsuits and stuff. (I think you can get past this buy sending a direct instant message, but I minght be wrong)

I would bet they are using key loggers, very easy to install and use.

A couple of months ago, a kid was suspended for runnig acive key loggers on one of the admins computer. He sure got a whoppin from the principal.

 

[Oirectine]

Hmm...

Well both AIM for Mac and iChat have logging features. You can turn them off or on in the preferences.

Also it is annoying to note how AIM messages go through the internet unencrypted. The same with Email. I can't wait for PGP-style public/private key encryptions become mainstream. Then we'll all have great security.

Of course, by that time, quantum computing will make it all obsolete

 

[ayappa]

Thanks for the help!

Where would the saved conversations go to for the parents to see? Some folder?

I'll tell my friend tomorrow to check that setting out. Hopefully we can have some privacy now.