Messaging spam

Messaging spam, sometimes called SPIM,^[1]^[2]^[3] is a type of spam targeting users of instant messaging (IM) services, SMS, or private messages within websites.

Many users choose to receive IMs only from people already on their contact list.

In corporate settings, spam over IM is blocked by IM spam blockers like those from Actiance, ScanSafe, and Symantec.

[6]

IM providers like have a "report user" button, which sends a chatlog to the IM administrators who can then take action.

Kik

Pornographic IM spambots[edit]

Spam-bots often sign on to popular messaging services like Kik^[7] or Skype to spread pornographic images. Often if the user responds they receive a URL inviting them to a private livestream that will ask them to enter credit card details for "age verification".

These bots target random usernames; this often results in minors receiving unsolicited pornographic images.