IRC, Internet Relay Chat

The IRC was primarily created for group to group discussions in forums known as channels. It also allows one on one discussion via private messaging. Internet Chat Relay is a protocol that uses TCP and sometimes TLC. Its network be can easily expanded by connecting the IRC servers with one another. The structure of IRC network servers is very unique, yet vulnerable. Messages are only sent out along necessary paths, but the network state is distributed to each server, creating a high degree of trust amongst them. This structure is insecure for many reasons. A malicious or compromised server can inflict considerable damage on the network, allowing unwanted traffic to roam freely. The network may begin to experience problems, such as spam messages being sent to users or even loss of network resources. IRC connections are also vulnerable because the actions usually are not encrypted over lengthy periods of time, making them a prime target for hackers. Some malicious individuals have taken advantage of these weaknesses by attempting IRC takeovers.