Didn't have problem with hotmail and msn messager ect.. I usually avoids download and open suspicious attachment. I know what attachment file ends with. My lappy and basment pc hardly had virus cuz I have antivirus.
Suggestion. If you don't want to screw ur pc, Why not run VMware!!! lol. Install XP inside your vmware and then run without antivirus and log in website "naked"!! You'll don't have to worry about infecting your pc that runs on virtual pc. I've done that to go in some website that are loaded with viruses. I ran it and infected virtual pc then I delete the crapped out XP from that in a seconds. LOL. I luv it!!
Or run LiveCD Linux of your choice and check MSN from there. Linux cannot read Virus code so no worry.
Catty
OMG Catty, Long time no see. I see you only loop around in Computer, ISP & Programming threads.

I know that almost European and other counties always use Hotmail and MSN messenger because having different languages versions.
I love MSN !! and you can invitepl for group chats pretty unreal.
It is secure, imo it is secure as your wits...if youre dumb enough to open accept infected files -its your fault. Be viligent even with your retarded family members when they send emails. It is becomes insecure if you get passed around in some infected files...... and my hotmail is pretty good, I just block out the unwanted stuff, havent tried gamail , i shall try tht after Uni... (I dont like learngn computer stuff WHILE i study the real thing during the year)
I am feeling it's control. Do you think MSN is bad for you?? Because 2 much issues, virus, spam, spyware and hacker???

My first MSN Messenger was 4.6 that bundled with 2001 version of XP (no SP), it was very simple and little unstable when compare to latest version, such as 6 and 7.
Now, it's replaced into Windows Live Messenger.
I have MSN Messenger on Mac OS X too, it works fine and have use hotmail via Firefox 3 due outlook style but not work on Safari, I haven't get any problem with hotmail either, hotmail was my first email, before gmail is release on public.
Pinky, you can get viruses from AIM if you open the infected file from anyone whoever send it.