HF XMPP
Overview
HF XMPP is Hack Forums' official instant messaging service. This project was announced on May 13, 2013 before being put on hold until Tuesday, October 28th, 2014, where it was announced that Omniscient was considering bringing the project back up again. It was released as a Beta for Mentors, Staff, and Administrators on November 20, 2014 before being released to members who had both the Ub3r and 3p1c upgrades and was eventually released l33t members. The XMPP server uses the Prosody software, written in LUA language. HF XMPP requires OTR (Off the record), which encrypts messages sent from client-to-client and users cannot message anyone without OTR installed on their client.
Help Document
What is the HF IM XMPP server?
The HF IM XMPP service is a special chat protocol we run on our server called XMPP. It's been around for many years. We offer XMPP services to certain upgraded member groups. The domain is hackforums.im so as a user you'll have the account UID@hackforums.im.
How do I use XMPP?
Most people download the Pidgin client for their computer. Some mobile apps are also XMPP compatible such as ChatSecure. Be aware any client requires OTR (Off The Record) and TLS 1.1+ or better. Once you have a client go to the HF IM XMPP page and the rest should be self explanatory.
Why should I use XMPP instead of Skype?
Other chat services do not offer the same level of security that XMPP along with OTR would. OTR is an end-to-end encryption that prevents even us the chat server admins to read your messages. We do not log messages and even if we did we'd have no way to know what content was in it. Part of the benefits of using the HF IM XMPP is that everyone using it is given their UID@hackforums.im making it quick and easy to associate, connect, and verify an HF account. When you IM with 1@hackforums.im you know indeed you're not being contacted by an impersonator. The HF IM XMPP also allows for more privacy. You will not need to expose additional private data when using the HF IM XMPP.
Can I change my XMPP username?
Sorry but you cannot. Your buddies can set an alias for you. To ensure integrity of usernames all members will get UID@hackforums.im and are unable to change it.
Can I set my own password?
No. We create random passwords to avoid potentially easy to crack passwords or having common-use passwords.
I lost my password. How do I recover it?
On the HF IM XMPP page the option to set a new password exists. It will take only a few seconds. It will also automatically log out any existing sessions just in case your HF IM XMPP is stolen or compromised.
Can I share my account with someone else?
No, that's a serious security risk for you and for members. Anyone found sharing their XMPP are subject to a closed account on HF and the XMPP service.
How do I know it's secure?
Because we require OTR. That means you can't even chat with anyone that doesn't have it enabled. There are currently no known exploits to break the encryption. If one is found we will alert members and patch the server. You can do your own research into OTR if you don't believe us. The encryption process is called end-to-end which means it's from your client to the recepient client with no requirements from the server. With a simple plugin we have installed we make sure that all clients have it enabled in order to exchange chat messages.
What information is logged?
We only log a few things in order to prevent abuse of the system. We log the IP's and timestamps of logins, account creation, password changes, and resets.
Who can read my chat messages?
No one but you and the person you're in chat with.
I got ripped off after doing a deal in HF IM XMPP. What do I do?
Well unfortunately we're not able to help you. Staff do not get involved in deals or deal disputes. All deals are at your own risk.
What software does HF IM XMPP run?
The XMPP server software is Prosody written in LUA language.
I'm having trouble getting the XMPP to work. What do I do?
There are a number of good member created tutorials and also knowledgeable members willing to help. Here are some examples: Hack Forum's Official Instant Messenger: A Full Guide by xadamaxk Hack Forums IM Service: FAQ by Robust