I would like to know if using instant messenger & webcam with Yahoo poses any increased security risks. I think I read somewhere that there are real safety issues with msn messenger due to the nature of the software. I am just up-grading to Windows XP & trying to follow all the security advice from www.techspot.com/vb/topic31474.html "Prevent infections by making windows more secure..." but there is little point in following such advice if I will jepordise it by using unsecure software.
I will be getting a DSL cable router & using an ntl broadband cable connection.

The biggest threat IM programs pose is the user blindly trusting a message from a "friend" and opening malicious links/files. Do not open anything before asking what it is - it could be malware on your friend's computer sending you stuff.

Other than that, YIM is no bigger threat than any other internet application. Just use common sense.