Windows Messenger Viruses, Spyware and Hackers?

Hey windows messenger is a big thing today. Most of my friends go on there. But isn't it true that you can catch viruses and all from hackers and other people. I have heard things like my friends have been sending each other viruses. (or so they say). If this is really true, why do so many people take the risk. From what i know windows messenger sends messages to your computer telling who's online. If this is easily done are there hackers outside the network that send messages to your pc with viruses attached? I'd like to try msn but i cant because of this, is all that true?

Viruses are very common on MSN Messenger but if you follow some simple tips then you will never have any problems.

1) Never accept Zip folders from your friends. Especially the common sign of:

Hey friend, I found a picture that looks just like you!

Friend sends picture_0234.zip

2) Never open PIF or EXE Files.

3) Never save any downloads that you are linked to.


That will save you from most problems. Unless you are bill gates, hackers will never affect you.

you need to be connected in order for anyone to do anything. Even then, you also need to be connected via a file transfer. Just chatting with someone relays everything through the server. A file transfer makes an actual connection between computers.

And yes.. don't click links