Windows Live Messenger Virus?

I recently discovered that my Windows Live Messenger has some virus which sends weird messages to people on my list.

I scanned my computer, but no virus was found. I removed Windows Live Messenger from my computer in hopes that the virus will be removed as well. I planned to download Windows Live Messenger again, but I haven't done so. Waiting for some advice first.

Does deleting Windows Live Messenger remove the virus as well? If it doesn't what can I do to handle this virus?

Will the virus still be there if I download Windows Live Messenger again?

Windows Live Messenger Virus?

Well if you didn't download it from microsoft, and you have a virus you should click on my computer and right click on the hard drive icon and choose format. this will delete everything tough even windows so you have to reinstall windows or mac if you have one, but make sure you actully do have a virus, and if you do be carful when doing what i siad.

If you scanned your comp and it doesn't say anything but you know it has a virus then yes and it is much easier than other things you can do. this is the only sure way to get rid of a virus.

Windows Live Messenger Virus?

Reformatting is not the only way to get rid of a virus.

The BEST way to get rid of a virus is to not get one in the first place. While this may sound kindof smartallicky.. I do not mean it to be... the best defense is really a good defense.

Some malware is difficult to get rid of and will actually mutate and make it impossible to install antivirus after-the-fact and/or will damage your files so badly that you will have no choice but to reformat.

I would suggest that you first perform a web based scan from a reliable site like symantec.com or from trend micro at http://housecall65.trendmicro.com which will scan AND remove malware.

I would also suggest that you run windows update to ensure your operating system is up to date with the latest security patches and make sure it's set to auto update them as well.

Then get yourself a security suite (antivirus, firewall, antispyware, etc) from a RELIABLE vendor (like a mcafee, norton, kaspersky, etc) and make sure its properly configured and automatically updating to protect yourself.

If you do not know how to use your security suite it may be worth a few extra bucks to hire a reliable and qualified technician / tutor who can give you instructions on how to do some basic maintenance on your pc, some basic security awareness for safe browsing habits, and how to handle alerts from your security suite... this is SOOOOooo important.

Good Luck