Are instant messages (IM) records?
Yes, in certain circumstances. They are similar to e-mail messages; that is, if the messages are needed to substantiate your work, you must treat them the same way you would any e-mail record. You need to capture the text of the message, as well as who the message is to/from and the date and time. Also, due to the informal and sometimes cryptic nature of IM, it may be necessary to transcribe or capture the message in another format much as you would for a telephone conversation or other verbal communication if it is needed to document your activities. And finally, it is important to be careful if you use a non-EPA IM product to communicate with external users because it could result in unauthorized disclosure of information. See also: NARA’s Frequently asked questions about Instant Messaging.
