A few times some nefarious site has installed a phantom dialer here,,, and they generally dial some pay for content sight. Luckily I have broadband and it doesn't dial out.

You might want to look in your dial up network folder and maybe select all or otherwise try to highlight blank area's. Once you find it you can access and delete it.
And perhaps run an online virus scanner too.

Perhaps in your internet options on the connections tab checkmark the Never Dial a connection option.

Another thing it MIGHT be... ( But I'd check out Mikies suggestions first... ) Years ago I had a similar problem but my computer would boot up every time the phone rang or I picked up the receiver to use the phone... My tech fixed it by going into the BIOS and shutting off something.... ( It's been so long I can't remember what it was. )

Rita

Thanks to all of you who responded. So far, nothing has helped...One more thing it might be is the file that was placed on my computer when I installed my HP scanner, by the name of hpcmpmgr.exe. This is a systems diagnostics program that collects information on drivers, etc; and offers updates when needed. I noticed it pops up in the bottom tray about every 15 minutes. I don't care to have my system diagnosed, and would like to be rid of this hidden file. No way to uninstall it. If I uninstall my scanner, will it also take the exe file or is on here to stay? Has anyone found a way to get rid of this file? I am somewhat computer challanged, so please make it simple.Thanks again!! Ida

You can disable the file from starting here is how:

1. Start menu-->run--> type msconfig--> hit enter
2. go to startup tab, un-check hpcmpmgr box
3. Click apply, close window, restart computer
4. Becareful in there and only uncheck that one.

When you re-boot you will get a window put a check mark in the little square that says DO NOT SHOW THIS MESG. AGAIN, if you do not do this you get that window all the time when rebooting.

You should also use msconfig to find out what programs are running on your computer that you many not know about. There are several websites that can identify the programs by the startup names. You will find some programs have been installed without your knowledge and they run every time you boot up. One of them probably is the program dialing out constantly. Review the task list site and uncheck any startup programs not necessary to the smooth performance of you computer.

Here is a link that might be useful: ID startup programs

Thank you zep & bean counter! I did the msconfig thing and got rid of the aggrevating little end task screens I always get when trying to shut down at night. I don't know if this is the file that is causing all the automatic dial up...time will tell. But since I know how, I can go back in and look for more unnecessary stuff if needed.Thanks again to all of you!
Ida

I can't either...but I know what my problem is. It is called addiction.

I hope you have gotten or can get your problem taken care of. I don't think there is an answer to mine though.

Sue