Shoot The Messenger

Everyone should turn off Windows Messenger. Do it now because I'll step you through the process and you'll have closed the door to Gray Panel Spam.

If you are already infected here's a link to free software that may help you to remove the Trojan.

But FIRST you must turn off Windows Messenger.

In XP go to Start -->Control Panel -->Administrative Tools -->Services.

Inside Services is Messenger. Double Click on Messenger and the Properties Panel will come up.

Midway down the Panel you'll see a Drop Down Window and a Row of Buttons below the Window.

Hit the Stop Button and then in the Drop Down Window Select Disabled.

Reboot and You're Done -- Unless you have an infection. You must Disable Messenger First or your attempts to remove the Trojan will either be futile, frustrating, and likely both. So it's best to shut down Messenger and then use use the freeware offerings from companies like Grisoft that provide a comprehensive interface for those users who do not know their way through the operating system and provide real time protection from spam and viruses.

• Go to Start: Programs: Windows Messenger. A Windows Messenger window will pop up.
• Click the Tools tab, and select Options. Another window will pop up.
• Click the Preferences tab, and make sure the following two boxes are unchecked:
• Run this program when Windows starts
• Allow this program to run in the background

Source: CalTech ITS