ScatterChat for Windows

Chat anonymously with this multi-network IM client

The Internet is a notorious breeding ground for people who want to invade your privacy, and instant messaging is increasingly under attack from snoopers. ScatterChat represents a great way to make sure that your private conversations stay private, by allowing you to connect securely through Gaim encryption technology.

Although it takes quite a while to install the application, largely taken up by generating the encryption key, once it's running it requires little technical knowledge and operates in much the same way as an ordinary IM client. At the centre of the program is the Buddy List, which helps you effectively manage your contacts and send messages at the click of a name. The program supports all the major IM networks and despite the fact that the encryption nibbles at your connection a little more than a normal client, it represents a great way to stay in touch and stay safe.