Hi I get error messages, 'Buffer overrun in messenger' and 'Registry may be corrupt' the message asked me to go to a non Microsoft website to pay to download a patch to rectify. I think it's a con but how do I stop the messages or check for problems. Nick

Do you have any actual problems with the computer?

Does this window pop up say Messenger Service?

Do you have SP2 installed?

There is no legitimate Microsoft site that would offer such a patch.

All Microsoft patches and updates can be found via Windows Updates listed under All Programs on your start menu.

Originally Posted by Anna & Nick

Hi I get error messages, 'Buffer overrun in messenger' and 'Registry may be corrupt' the message asked me to go to a non Microsoft website to pay to download a patch to rectify. I think it's a con but how do I stop the messages or check for problems. Nick

You've probably got a virus, trojan or spyware trying to phish for your payment details.

Scan your computer for spyware and virus data immediately.

Ditto on all that. Scan and also install SP2 and all the latest updates too (not by following an invitation link- there isn't any)

Hi I have no comp problems only the frequent messages, they don't seen to say where they are from. I don't have sp2, thanks for you input, Nick

There is a Service in XP named Messenger Service. In XP and XP SP1 it was default set to automatic. It was desinged for cross network messages but was soon used as a spam outlet. In SP2 it is now default Disabled. If this is the vehicle you will see Messenger Service in the upper right of the window that opens.

You can manually disable this service by going to Services via Administrative Tools.

You should get SP2 as well which will do this automatically. Go to Windows Update and take all Critical Updates. One of which will be SP2.

If the pop ups persist after that then we can further trace the source.

Thanks for your help it's much appreciated, Anna Nick