Member Avatar for jackj4k

I'm running Windows98. A couple days ago I installed the latest patch sent by Microsoft. Ever since then, when I want to use the computer without signing in to MSN the sign in dialog box keeps coming up. Ending task, canelling etc does not get rid of it. Very irritating
Any suggestions

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This behavior usually means an MSN component is being relaunched automatically (a startup shortcut, Run key, scheduled task or a small “sign‑in assistant” installed by the update), or less commonly that adware is impersonating MSN. ’s pointer to the program preferences is the fastest initial check, and ’s suggestion to consider malware is prudent — both lines of investigation should be followed along with deeper cleanup steps below.

Look for automatic launch points that survive an attempt to close the dialog:

  • Remove any MSN shortcut from Start -> Programs -> Startup.
  • Run the System Configuration Utility (msconfig) and disable MSN-related startup entries.
  • Inspect and back up the registry before editing; check HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run and HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run for values that reference MSN/messenger and delete the offending entries only after exporting them.

If the component won’t uninstall while Windows is running, boot to Safe Mode (press F8) and:

  • Use Control Panel -> Add/Remove Programs to remove MSN components or the recent update if present.
  • Check Scheduled Tasks and Internet Explorer toolbars/plugins (some MSN updates add a sign‑in helper).

For stubborn cases or to identify the exact binary responsible, use a startup/process inspection tool (Autoruns or Process Explorer) from a clean environment to find the executable that spawns the dialog, then remove or rename it from Safe Mode. Always export registry keys and back up important data before making changes. If a security infection is suspected, scan from Safe Mode (or a rescue environment) with current antivirus/anti‑spyware definitions before reinstalling or rolling back components.

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Member Avatar for kc0arf

Hi,

Any idea what update you installed? If you are lucky, we might find out if it has an un-installer, but I am highly doutbting it.

I am also wondering if you have a bug that wants to get onto the internet so that it can transmit out the payload of the bug. Are you on a cable modem, or dial-up? Does your computer want to dial out all the time?

Let us know.

Christian

Member Avatar for DMR

Simple question perhaps, but have you looked at your MSN preferences? There should be an option to have MSN load at Windows startup. If that option is enabled, try disabling it.

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