Do you share files while chatting online? Don't let viruses intrude on the conversation. Install the Windows Live OneCare safety scanner in Windows Live Messenger, and you'll be able to check and clean any files you receive from your friends and family instantly.
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virus Code written with the express intention of replicating itself.
Shared files don't always mean safe files
When you receive a file from a friend via Windows Live Messenger, whether it's a picture or a Microsoft Word document, you don't always know where it's been. Sometimes viruses or other malicious software ("malware") ride piggyback on files, without even the sender's knowledge. Being aware of and staying vigilant against these threats can help you guard your PC against infection.
How does Windows Live Messenger help protect my PC?
The first time you receive a file from someone you're chatting with online, Windows Live Messenger will ask you whether you'd like to download and install the free Windows Live OneCare safety scanner.
Once installed, the scanner automatically checks for viruses each time a file is transferred or shared through Messenger and lets you know if a known virus is found. You can then either clean or delete any infected files.
What sorts of things does the scanner find?
Just like the protection scan in the Windows Live safety scanner, the scanner in Messenger inspects the transferred files for malicious software. It is able to identify known viruses and prompt you when it finds something that looks a little suspicious. The scanner in Messenger also keeps itself up to date with the latest malware signature files from Microsoft and installs them as needed. This way, you get the most up-to-date protection possible.
Help protect a friend’s PC while you’re chatting
As long as you’re instant messaging, you should know that you can now remotely diagnose and fix everything from malware to hard-disk fragmentation on someone else's computer. The scanner in Messenger works just like the scanner on the Windows Live safety scanner site. You'll both be able to see what the scanner is doing each step of the way and communicate via Messenger while it's running. Learn more about scanning with a friend.
