How MSN Finds Locations
When you use Windows Live Messenger, formerly known by the name "MSN Messenger," the service logs your location as a security measure. If you sign in at a second location, for example, the Messenger informs you of the other locations where you are signed in. The means Messenger uses to find your location depends on which type of device you use to access the Messenger software.
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Purpose of Location
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Although some may raise personal freedom and privacy issues regarding the use of locations in online tools such as Windows Live Messenger, one benefit of using location services is for account security. When Windows has a record of the locations from which you are signed into your account, the company -- or you -- can track down any unauthorized Internet users who compromise your account's security.
Computer and IP Address
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If you access Windows Live Messenger via computer, the service ascertains your location using your Internet protocol address, or "IP address." When you connect to the Internet, your computer's domain name server or "DNS" assigns it an IP address specific to the modem or router you use to connect to the Internet, and in doing so, logs your geographical location and the name of the Internet service provider you use to connect to the Internet.
Mobile
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When you connect via mobile, on the other hand, Messenger uses the device's built-in GPS locator to ascertain your location, which corresponds to your geographical coordinates rather than the registered location of your Internet service provider. If your phone doesn't have a GPS locator, Messenger uses the location information of the carrier whose cellular data connection you use.
Signing Out of All Locations
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If, upon signing in to Windows Live Messenger, you notice that you are signed in from an unfamiliar location, you can choose the "Sign Out of All Locations" option to secure your account. A further step you can take to prevent future unauthorized access is to change both your account password and the security questions someone can use to reset the account password himself.
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