IM software makers talk compliance

Instant messaging software provider Jabber announced on Tuesday that it had teamed up with IM management software maker Akonix Systems to help Jabber users comply with new regulations, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act and the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. The laws require that companies protect personal information and keep track of who accesses certain sensitive data.

The collaboration will enable companies to manage, secure and archive all enterprise instant-messaging communications with employees, customers and partners, the two companies said in a release. Specifically, the agreement will allow Jabber customers to use Akonix's L7 Enterprise and Enforcer products.