- Kindle back orders stretch 3 months at Amazon
- Cisco shutting down between holidays
- Smartphone smackdown: Storm vs. iPhone
- 12 myths about how the Internet works
- Google layoffs: 10,000 jobs being cut
Instant-messaging systems aren't the only way spammers can splash unwanted messages across PC users' screens. A utility in Windows XP and Windows 2000 called Windows Messenger Service was designed to let network administrators broadcast short messages to users to inform them that a server needs rebooting or a printer is out of toner.
But spammers soon discovered if they had the IP addresses of the intended recipients, they too could send short pop-up messages promoting their services, sending users to a Web site or even linking to an executable file that could launch a virus.
Microsoft says a fix is on the way. In Service Pack 2 of XP, slated for release before the end of June, Microsoft plans to include a utility that will "automatically disengage" Windows Messenger Service so that it can't be used, says Matt Pilla, senior product manager in the Windows Client Division. Microsoft also has posted on its Web site instructions for disabling Windows Messenger Service and configuring firewalls to protect from intruders.
| NetworkWorld, Inc. | About Network World, Inc. | Advertise | Careers | Contact us | Terms of Service/Privacy | Reprints and links | Partnerships | Press room | Subscribe to NW |
| IDG, Inc. | CIO | Computerworld | CSO | Demo | GamePro | Games.net | IDGconnect.com | IDG World Expo | Infoworld | JavaWorld.com | LinuxWorld.com | MacUser | Macworld | PC World | Playlistmag.com | The Industry Standard | IDG List Services | IDG TechNetwork |
 The Leader in Network Knowledge© 1994-2008 Network World, Inc. All rights reserved. |
Partner Content
Brilliantly simple security and control solutions for email, web and endpoint
www.sophos.com
Stopping data leakage
Learn how to exploit your current security investment to control the information that flows into, through and out of your network.
Download the white paper.
Why detection rates aren't enough
Evaluating endpoint security products is a time-consuming and daunting task. Learn the six critical questions you need to ask prospective vendors to get the right endpoint solution.
Download the white paper.
Applications: taking back control
Employees installing unauthorized applications is a growing threat to business security and productivity. Cost-effectively reduce this threat by integrating control into your malware protection.
Learn more today.
Comment