DestroyerLXXVII@gmail.com wrote:
> Hello, I'm rather new to this google groups windows topics
> whatever. But I was wondering if the firewall could block a program
> (what it's supposed to do anyway) that's been annoying me.
>
> Anyhow this program keeps on putting web pages in my browser
> that I don't tell it to go to. Yet I don't think it qualifies as a
> pop-up. I've had my browser closed and this thing opens up the browser
> and a new page to show me some stupid ad. This has become increasingly
> annoying because some of these ads even have sound!!
(snip)
From the description of the problem, it sounds like 1) you have XP or
Win2k and if XP, you haven't applied Service Pack 2; 2) you have the
Windows Messenger service enabled; 3) you don't have a good firewall in
place; 4) you probably also have malware on the machine.
If you have XP, you should prepare your computer properly for SP2 and
install it. SP2 comes with a firewall or you can use a third-party
program. If you have Win2k, disable the Messenger Service fully patch
your OS.
In the meantime, disable the Messenger Service, get a proper firewall in
place, and make sure your computer is clean. I'll give you links to
help with all of that (I'm going to assume you have XP), but if the
prospect seems daunting (and there is no shame in admitting that), take
the machine to a professional computer repair shop (not your local
version of BigStoreUSA) for cleaning/upgrading.
Preparing for SP2:
Are You Ready for WinXP SP2? -
http://support.microsoft.com/default...r=windowsxpsp2
Follow the Service Pack Installation Checklist -
http://www3.telus.net/dandemar/spackins.htm
SP2 links to OEMs -
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/sp2/oemlinks.mspx
http://aumha.net - See SP2 forums
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_s.htm#sp2 - Windows SP2 Information,
Guidelines and Troubleshooting
http://www.michna.com/kb/WxSP2.htm#General
Making sure your computer is clean:
http://www.elephantboycomputers.com/...moving_Malware
Practicing Safe Hex:
http://www.claymania.com/safe-hex.html
Malke
--
MS-MVP Windows User/Shell
Elephant Boy Computers
www.elephantboycomputers.com
"Don't Panic"