if you are using AOL " instant MESSENGER "...and not just" instant message" ....which are two distinct chat clients ( altho they can interact in the most basic form)...and you want to recieve a file from someone...select the persons name on your buddy list ...and chose RECIEVE a FILE ..or SEND a FILE... Those actions are monitored by the chat client. so before you recieve a file a dialog box will ask you if you want to SCAN THE FILE FOR A VIRUS FIRST .... that is the safest method i know of in AOL instant messenger ... ....clickninny To unsub or change your email settings: //www.freelists.org/webpage/pctechtalk To access our Archives: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/PCTechTalk/messages/ //www.freelists.org/archives/pctechtalk/