Title:  Why am I getting an annoying "Messenger" pop-up?

Question:
Why am I getting an annoying "Messenger" pop-up?

Answer:
Some "spam" is using the Windows messenger service, which is on by default
on Windows NT, Windows 2000, and Windows XP systems.

The messenger service (which is not the same thing as the MSN Messenger
instant messaging application) can be disabled. It's most commonly used to
send broadcast messages, intended for use by system administrators when
notifying users of pending events.

Here's an article with more on the subject of spam delivered via the
Messenger service:

http://www.techtv.com/screensavers/answerstips/story/0,24330,3374542,00.html

You should consult with your local system administrator before disabling
this service on your computer.

To disable "messaging" in Windows XP:

1. Click Start, then right-click on My Computer and choose "Manage".

2. In Computer Management, click on the Services and Applications item.

3. In the list of services on the right side, double-click "Messenger".

4. In the General tab, click "Stop" to turn off the service. The system
should pause while it turns off messenger.

5. Change "startup type" to "disabled", and click OK.

6. Close the "manage" windows.

To disable "messaging" in Windows 2000:

1. Right-click on My Computer and choose "Manage".

2. In Computer Management, click on the Services item.

3. In the list of services on the right side, double-click "Messenger".

4. In the General tab, click "Stop" to turn off the service. The system
should pause while it turns off messenger.

5. Change "startup type" to "disabled", and click OK.

6. Close the "manage" windows.