It's also possible to get a virus from downloading a copy of mirc off here
It's happened before, IIRC.
The key here is chances, although you seem to think it isn't important. I agree, that it isn't important, to the new-comer. But generally speaking, IRC IS a safer medium than KaZaA, provided you follow a few simple guidelines (stick to larger channels, etc).
I am not advocating it by any means, but it is my belief and experience that IRC is a safer medium in it's current state. Very few people I know of will disagree with me on this.
