I don't think it would be a bother for someone to select the link and then press (crtl+c =>crtl+T => crtl+v)and then (Enter).At least it wouldn't bother me.Also links are dangerous as everyone knows (a lot of attacks can be crafted with links) even tho there is no known vulns for the chat box now but it might be in the future and it can be exploited.
so disabling hotlinking in CB is a good idea I think with an active Chat box like the one here at KWWH.
well I might vote "I don't care" tho or won't be voting at all.I'm not here for the Chat Box anyway.I was just giving my opinion here.