In response to the growing use of Instant Messaging (IM) and text messaging, NASCIO examines the privacy implications of these technologies in its new research brief, TLK2UL8R: The Privacy Implications of Instant and Text Messaging Technologies in State Government.

The title of the brief -- TLK2UL8R -- refers to the abbreviated lingo that has developed in IM and text messaging communications. It means, in non-IM terms, "Talk to you later."

Instant Messaging technologies allow users to communicate in real-time with other IM users online via text messages. Consumers' growing use of IM via their computers, cell phones, PDAs and other wireless devices for personal communications with friends and family has acted as a catalyst for the introduction of IM into state government. IM can improve employee communications, particularly for time-sensitive matters. However, it raises questions similar to email in terms of maintaining the privacy and security of communications and retaining the communications for purposes of open records law compliance.

The first portion of this research brief produced by NASCIO's Privacy Committee provides an overview of IM and text messaging's growing use, including a discussion of the security implications and business drivers of IM in the state government workplace. The remainder of the brief discusses the potential privacy implications of IM and text messaging, including maintaining the privacy of sensitive information transmitted via IM and the potential for IM communications to be archived without a person's knowledge. The brief also provides readers with examples of how states are using IM technology. The brief's appendices give readers additional resources and tips on how to safely use IM as well as a discussion of the privacy implications of "chat" technology, which is similar to IM technology and is increasingly used by states to provide "live-help" online to citizens.

"As the use of IM and text messaging emerges in the state government workplace, State CIOs must determine how those communication methods can be used for the benefit of the state and its citizens, while still preserving the privacy of citizens' personal information," said Lester Nakamura, chair of NASCIO's Privacy Committee and administrator of Hawaii's Information and Communication Services Division, "Establishing clear policies that can be incorporated into a state's existing acceptable use policy is a way to consistently ensure that citizens' personal information remains private and secure."