Manage buddy authorization

When you first add a Jabber buddy to a buddy list, the person’s name is listed in the Offline area of the list, assigned the status Unknown, and labeled Waiting for Authorization.

An authorization window opens on your friend’s computer to announce that you want to add them as a buddy, and they can accept or decline your invitation. You can send messages to your friend before you’re authorized.

When you’re authorized, you’ll be able to see your friend’s online status.

• If the person you added clicks Decline: You aren’t added to their buddy list. In your buddy list, the person’s name remains in the Offline area, with the label “Not Authorized.” You can chat with the person, but you won’t see their status. You can choose Buddies > Request Authorization to send another authorization request.

• If the person you added doesn’t respond to the request for authorization: Their name remains in the Offline area of your buddy list. You can double-click the person’s name in the list to start a chat, but you can’t see their status, and you aren’t listed in their buddy list.