Simple encryption for instant messages

Found on Newsforge on Saturday, 02 October 2004
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Instant messaging is everywhere nowadays, but people who use it may be surprised to know how trivial it is to listen in on their private conversations. Snoopers can use tools like tcpdump and aimsniff to tap into the contents of the messages. But with a little free software, IMers can be secure in the knowledge their conversations are, well, secure.

Gaim-Encryption is a Gaim plug-in that enables secure conversations over existing IM networks, and, like Gaim itself, Gaim-Encryption is available for most platforms. GNU/Linux users have a number of options, including non-official Debian sources, an RPM, or a tarball. Windows users can download the executable and install it normally.

Every time you IM someone the first IM will be in clear text. Alternatively, you can tell Gaim-Encryption to always encrypt to a given user by selecting his name from your Buddy List and right-clicking on the preference saying "Turn auto-encrypt on."

Now can we please drop those internet wiretap ideas? As expected, instant messaging software will make use of encryption. So, with that and PGP signed emails, the feds are left out.