Instant Messaging (IM)

There are public IM and Enterprise IM, and of course there are risks in using the software especially the unsecured public IM.

http://www.networkworld.com/research/2004/0628imfeat5.html

Some companies are using secure IM for their business communication purposes.

Secure Instant Messaging - Case Study

Secure Instant Messaging - Practical Business Benefits

Conducting Effective Audits of Messaging Systems

As for auditors, proper access controls, system documentation, and disaster recovery plans are some of the items auditors need to examine during reviews of messaging systems.

http://www.theiia.org/ITAudit/index.cfm?iid=556&catid=21&aid=2790