Instant Messaging (IM) policies provide control over the use of instant messaging clients. If a policy is breached, GFI WebMonitor uses the configured policy to determine what action to take.

 

The Instant Messaging Policy feature can allow or block access to the following clients:

 A list of online instant messaging portals is embedded within GFI WebMonitor and is automatically updated when new patterns are discovered and released. The default list includes the following portals: 

There is a Default IM, and a Social Control Policy enabled when GFI WebMonitor is installed. It is pre-configured to allow access to all social networking services to all users on your network. The default policy can be edited, but it cannot be disabled or deleted. Any changes made to the default policy apply to all users.

Note: Certain fields in the default policy cannot be edited, including Policy Name and Apply Policy To.

 

Creating a new Social Control Policy

1. Navigate to Settings > Policies > Internet Policies.

2. In the Instant Messaging / Social Control Policies section, click on Add Policy.

3. In the Policy Name field, add a policy name.

4. In the Filter section, specify which social networking service to block or allow under Social Controls.

5. In the Apply Policy To field, specify the users, groups, or IPs for whom the new policy applies and click Add.

   Note: Proxy Authentication must be enabled. Otherwise, you will not be able to add Active Directory users.

6. In the Notify Breacher section, click ON to enable sending notifications when a user infringes this policy. Provide the body text of the notification email in the available space.

7. Use the Notify Administrators section to send notifications when the downloaded content infringes this policy. Add the administrator’s email address and provide the body text of the notification email.

8. Click Save to apply the changes.

   Note: All added policies take priority over the default policy.