I just wiped my entire system and reinstalled from the Dell factory disks. I updated all of the Windows XP patches and Macafee. The only "non factory" installed program on my entire computer to be installed so far is AIM 5.5 3595. I already have oodles of spywar adult links added to my favorites, look2me, etc on my VIRGIN pc. How did this happen?? is this all from my kids installing AIM?

Nah, AIM would never do that, well it might but it wouldn’t put adult links in your favorites! I think one of your kids (or you! lol) have been visiting some naughty websites though! Symbios

If you don't have all the security updates applied before you go online, I have heard you can get infected in just a few minutes. I never went online without the updates so I don't know. If you want to start clean, download the MS updates to a CD. Get Spywareblaster, Spybot S&D, Adaware too. put them all on a CD. Then reinstall Windows, apply the fixes from the CD, install the protection programs. Make sure the Windows firewall is enabled! Get online, check for more MS updates. Check for updates for the protection programs. Reboot. check for porn in your favorites. Then if you must, install AOL. You should be safe. Check for porn again. Keep everything updated. Yes, I did all that (except AOL) and I have no malware on my computer.

like Symbios said, did you watch the kids??? maybe they did things you don't know about.

I heard the new aim version contains some spyware. Make sure you reinstall windows OFFLINE.

AIM wouldn't put adult links in your favorites, but I believe it does come with some spyware, such as Viewpoint Media Player, and Wild Tangent, according to IronMan at http://www.computing.net/security/wwwboard/forum/9665.html. Some have also reported that the WeatherBug comes with AIM. When you have the time, I recommend you get rid of AIM, and install Trillian, which comes with AIM, and is spyware free.

I never heard of weatherbug being bundled with aim.I run it(weatherbug) and adaware and spybot dont pick it up as spyware.