How does the IM Catcher feature help?
If you receive an Instant Message (IM) from an Internet user (someone who is using the AOL Instant Messenger (AIM) service) who is not listed on your Buddy List, the IM Catcher captures the message and offers you the option to open, block, or ignore the IM. This protects you from Spam IMs (SPIM) and potentially dangerous or offensive IMs.