Stopping Advertisements with Messenger Service Titles

When you are connected to the Internet, a new window may open on your computer screen containing an advertisement. The windows are labeled Messenger Service in the title bar. However, these messages, which are sometimes called "messenger spam," are not related to Windows Messenger, MSN® Messenger or such instant messaging services. Disabling your instant messaging services will not stop this form of advertisement.

Figure 1. Example of "messenger spam"

These advertisements are sent via the Messenger Service, which is designed for use by system administrators in Windows server-client networks. System administrators use the messenger service to send messages that notify you of conditions on or give status about your network. However, some advertisers have started using this service to send their information via the Internet.

The way you can stop messenger spam depends on whether your computer is part of a corporate network.

• If your computer is part of a corporate network, discuss the issue with your network administrator. A network administrator can configure the network firewall to block NetBIOS and UDP broadcast traffic.
• For a home computer, or a small network that you manage, Windows XP can block these advertisements. If you are connected to the Internet with a cable modem, a DSL modem, or a dial-up modem, you can turn on Internet Connection Firewall (ICF) to block messenger spam. A firewall may block you from receiving certain types of communication other than messenger spam, such as audio or video messages, and also from receiving files in Windows Messenger or MSN Messenger. (Instant messages should not be blocked.)

If you have Windows XP with Service Pack 1 installed, turn on Internet Connection Firewall.

Note:  You can tell if your computer is running Windows XP with Service Pack 1 by clicking Start, right-clicking My Computer, and clicking Properties. The details under "System" show which version of the operating system you have.

To enable Internet Connection Firewall

1. Click Start, click Control Panel, click Network and Internet Connections, and then click Network Connections.
2. Right-click the connection on which you would like to use ICF, and then click Properties.
3. On the Advanced tab, select Protect my computer and network by limiting or preventing access to this computer from the Internet, and then click OK.

To install Windows XP Service Pack 1 from Windows Update

1. Click Start, point to All Programs, and then click Windows Update.
   You must upgrade to Service Pack 1 to fully block messenger spam.
2. Follow the instructions for turning on the firewall for Windows XP with Service Pack 1 above.

Note You can also disable the Messenger Service in Windows XP. When you disable the messenger service, it is no longer available for receiving legitimate messages, such as administrative alerts and notifications from antivirus programs. Be sure to talk with your system administrator before taking this action if your computer is part of a corporate network.