A method for sending and receiving alerts in an instant messaging environment are disclosed. The method includes receiving a request for alerts from a service provider, the request including an alert template and a rule to retrieve the alert template. The method also includes receiving a trigger from the service provider, the trigger including an identification of an alert receiver, the rule to retrieve the alert template, and changeable contents for the alert template. The method further includes obtaining the alert template from the request for alerts based on the rule to retrieve the alert template in the trigger; composing an alert using the alert template and the changeable contents; and sending the alert to the alert receiver identified in the trigger. The method and system consistent with the present disclosure may enrich the user experience in instant messaging applications.