Instant Messenger Spam
Instant messaging (IM) systems, such as Yahoo! Messenger, AIM, MSN Messenger, Skype, and ICQ have become one of the latest targets for spammers. Many IM systems provide a searchable database or directory of users that can be easily exploited by a bot. These directories even include demographic information that can make it easier to target. Advertisers send unsolicited messages which attempt to solicit conversations and eventually allow them to snare unsuspecting prey. Before limiting access, IM users can see 6-10 attempts per day to ensnarl us in nefarious schemes.
