I personally think that what you describe Mizar is an age/experience thing. If you are "young" and has used computers for the better part of your life you dont really feel any real difference and can use that msn/yahoo whatever chat to suit your needs and if you arent as internet "savvy" you dont really feel as "secure" in that element. I might be wrong in your case (cause even I have been known to be wrong ) but oh well.
Use a pic of her just like Daddy54 said and I am sure it will make things easier.