I use the free AOL webmail and like it.

I haven't seen that particular message, but when I used it as a search phrase, I found considerable info, including this from AOL Help
http://help.aol.com/help/microsites/microsite.do?cmd=displayKC&docType=kc&externalId=223162

Here is a link that might be useful: AOL FAQ

Thanks so much for the sites. But another problem I have with this new computer is I can't get into any of the "help" sites. I just get a message, usually from aol, saying it's temporarily out of order. I think it happens with all of Windows7. I have a Comcast technician coming out for a few problems on MOnday, but I"m sure he cant handle this aol email one. If you have time, let me know if any of the sites you found have anything about my problem. I can't get on them. But thanks again for checking.

I have Verizon and Windows 7, but I use free AOL for my email. Since most of my old favorites and addresses were on AOL it seemed easier to stay with that. (I have had AOL since, what seems like, the beginning of time) Also DH is used to it. However I use Foxfire or IE10 for surfing. I never add any of the features that free AOL offers from time to time. I have never been bothered by any pop-up similar to what you mention. I would suggest you run Super Anti Spyware or some similar program.

Your problem with not getting into the AOL Help, may be due to some sort of spyware. I have never had any problem. I just click on the Help feature on the toolbar and then click on the first item in the drop down menu âÂÂAOL Helpâ and then I get a screen where I can ask a question. Free AOL does not offer any support other that what you can get from the help menu.

I donâÂÂt think it is a Comcast problem, but maybe they can help you. You say it is a new computer. Did it come preloaded with âÂÂstuffâÂÂ? Did you load all the extras that Comcast offered? I only ask because you may have extras ( unneeded) that conflict with AOL.

I was just reading all of AOL Help on " image challenging".

"Why do I have to take the image challenge multiple times?

If youâÂÂre prompted to retake the image challenge multiple times a day and arenâÂÂt able to send emails even after you clear your cache and cookies, you might have a more serious issue: A worm or virus might have infected your computer.

First, we recommend you perform some basic computer hygiene, starting with running a virus scan. For downloads of reliable antivirus software, visit AOL Internet Security Central. If the virus scan comes back clean but you still donâÂÂt pass the image challenge, check when your antivirus software was last updated. If it hasnâÂÂt been updated within the past 29 days, try updating the software again. If youâÂÂre not able to update the software, contact your softwareâÂÂs vendor for further support.

Next, we strongly recommend you reset the password for your AOL account to maintain the privacy and security of your account.

A virus isnâÂÂt the only reason you might have to take multiple image challenges. If you frequently send emails to a lot of people at the same time, you might be asked to pass the image challenge more than once. ItâÂÂs also possible AOL received spam complaints from people receiving your emails. (Maybe you sent one too many pictures of cute kittens?) We encourage you to send emails only to recipients who confirmed they want to receive your emails. You can do this by asking your recipients individually and confirming he or she would like to remain on your mailing list."

Thanks so much for all the help. I don't have a lot of extras on this new computer. I bought it from a local place that builds their own. It has the Windows7 Security which is supposed to be good. I also don't do a lot of emails-just to a few people and I never have anything attached. The aol "help" has not worked since I got the computer so it shouldn't be a virus. But I"m going to download some new spyware and try that. Thanks for the help.

I use the free web mail too but I use it with a mail program so don't log in at aol.com. I just logged in online and don't get that error, strange and have never seen it before. Have you tried logging in from a different browser.? Mary

Oh wait are you using aol.com to send and receive mail or are you using the aol program? I haven't used the aol program in years since I have high speed and don't need it. Mary

I have high speed, too, (comcast) but I use the free aol for everything. I just started with it many years ago, prefer it to Comcast so I kept it since it's free. I have it for my home page, too. Thanks for answering!

Hooray, it seems like the problem is solved. I'll still hold my breath for a while though! The password needed to be changed and, when I did it, there was a message that it was 'compromised'. I bet it happened when the little tablet and wi-fi were set up. But I wouldn't have known to change the password if I hadn't read it on here So, thanks again!

Glad it's solved. I never see any of those characters to enter so have no clue, must be something new they started with the program itself as they don't have you input those online. Mary