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| What is Windows Messenger? |
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| Windows XP and Windows 2000 both have software called Windows Messenger installed by default. This allows you to send and receive messages directly from one computer to another. Advertisers are using this facility to send advertisements direct to users screens. This should not be confused with instant messenger services such as AIM, ICQ etc., As these messages look like system alerts, usually with an 'OK' button, there is more of a chance that users confronted by them will actually begin to read them. At the time of writing, these messages can only contain text. Clickable links or javascript popups cannot currently be delivered using this method so they don't pose a threat, just an annoyance. |
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| How to disable Windows Messenger |
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| Windows XP: |
> Select "Start"
> Choose "Control Panel"
> Choose "Administrative Tools" (Performance then Maintenance in XP Home)
> Choose "Services"
> Right-click on "Messenger"
> Select "Stop"
To permanently disable Messenger:
> Right click "Messenger"
> Select "Properties"
> Change "Startup Type" to "Disabled" and click "OK" |
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| Windows 2000: |
> Select "Start"
> Choose "Settings"
> Choose "Control Panel"
> Choose "Administrative Tools"
> Choose "Services"
> Right-click "Messenger"
> Select "Properties"
> Click "Stop" To permanently disable Messenger:
> Change "Startup Type" to "Disabled" and click "OK" |
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| Windows NT: |
> Select "Start"
> Choose "Control Panel"
> Choose "Services"
> Right-click "Messenger"
> Select "Properties"
> Click "Stop" To permanently disable Messenger:
> Click "Startup"
> Change "Startup Type" to "Disabled" and click "OK" |
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