Internet Relay Chat (IRC)

The details of users using live chat provided by Yahoo, Windows, Skype and Gmail are readily made available to law enforcement agencies by the companies involved.

Internet Relay Chat (IRC) is a well-tested protocol for Internet text messaging. Users simply install an IRC application, or connect via a webpage. Many techies, human rights advocates and hacktivists use this technology, as it is possible to chat securely. It is also possible to set up your own IRC server for added security. XChat is a great IRC program which comes with Ubuntu. HexChat is the Windows equivalent, and KVirc is a good solution for Mac OSX.

Chatting securely with other rights advocates about subjects that you would prefer not to be logged
Giving or receiving secure technical help about a service or software you are providing or using

Stable, secure and well-tested text messaging technology

Text only; audio is not available
Can take a bit of time for new users to get used to it

Windows, Max OSX, Linux (various programs)
FOSS
Moderate

http://xchat.org/
http://hexchat.org/
http://www.kvirc.net/

Collaborative
Security