ICQ stopped working worldwide. After logging in, users see a message that version 5.1 is no longer supported, and contact lists remain empty. The outage was caused by AOL protocol updates, affecting not only the official client but also alternatives like Miranda and QIP. The article explains how quickly QIP reacted, which versions to install to restore service, and why these sudden updates again upset users.

Yesterday, the instant messaging service ICQ stopped working worldwide. After connecting, users receive a message from a bot with the nickname "1" with text like: "System message. ICQ version 5.1 is no longer supported. Download the free authorized version of ICQ from the official ICQ web site". At the same time, although logging in actually occurs, the contact lists turn out to be empty, and it is impossible to exchange messages. The problem turned out to be related to the fact that the company "AOL" updated the service protocol versions and stopped supporting version 5.1 of the official ICQ client.
Problems immediately appeared for users of other popular services as well. Interruptions are being observed in the operation of Miranda, QIP and QIP Infium.
QIP responded very quickly. Already yesterday, the company’s website made available for download QIP Infium 9020, which supports the new ICQ protocol. However, the QIP website experienced problems during the day due to the influx of visitors.
To get back in touch with colleagues and loved ones, you need to update your QIP to version 8080 or 9020. It is also recommended to check the other alternative clients for new versions as well.
It is worth noting that disruptions in ICQ’s operation have been occurring quite regularly lately. In particular, in November of this year, users also could not connect to the network. In July 2008, due to AOL servers switching to the ICQ 6 protocol, alternative clients were also disconnected. And, characteristically, again without warning.
One can also recall the story of the appearance in users’ contact lists of the ICQ program of the ICQ System contact under number 12111. The contact appeared in the General group and appeared again even after it was deleted. Then a version emerged that this was malicious software stealing or corrupting users’ passwords. However, later an official message appeared on the ICQ website retroactively stating that the appearance of this unknown contact was related to another update.
Such forced updates do nothing to increase users’ loyalty toward ICQ. But in addition, users of alternative clients such as QIP, Miranda, etc. also suffer.