I am an AOL subscriber and I too have been receiving this pop-up. Like most of you, I am skeptical of it’s legitimacy and have yet to click the install button. It popped up again as soon as I got online this morning, so I decided to contact AOL’s live support. Here is a copy of my conversation with the tech, who says it is legit. I am still, however, skeptical about installing it and I’m not sure that I will based on what I’ve read posted in this forum. Any feedback will be appreciated!!!!~~~Mel

~~~~~~~~~Conversation With AOL Tech~~~~~~~~~
System Hello, MELCROSSWHITE. Welcome to AOL Security Live Help Support. My name is James.
AOLTechJMV Thank you very much for allowing me to assist you.
AOLTechJMV Melanie, I understand you are receiving an Active Update Pop-up online. Do I have it correct?

MELCROSSWHITE Yes. This is what it says: The following update is ready to install. AOL Core Services – Active Update: This update is necessary to enhance AOL’s ability to resolve potential problems with your online experience. AOL applications will be automatically shut down.

AOLTechJMV Thank you very much for the clarification. I appreciate the time you’ve taken and this excellent opportunity to handle this for you. I am going to do my best to make sure you receive all the help you need.

MELCROSSWHITE I appreciate that.

AOLTechJMV Please allow me to explain to you what that popup is all about.

MELCROSSWHITE Thanks….please do.

AOLTechJMV The Active Update popup you are getting is Legit.
AOLTechJMV Active Update is a part of the Software Update and Delivery Service (SUDS) technology available for AOL 9.0 users. It allows you to download necessary updates to your AOL® applications to resolve and prevent issues and enhance your online experience.
AOLTechJMV When an update is available, a notice opens on your screen, telling you exactly what AOL application the update is for and what component will be updated. You will be notified of these changes, and AOL only makes changes to the actual application itself.
AOLTechJMV Please click the INSTALL NOW button on the window to download the update. Don’t turn off your computer or disconnecting the phone or modem while the updates are taking place. Doing so could result to an incomplete update.
AOLTechJMV This will not damage your computer in any way, but could keep you from enjoying the best and most up-to-date service AOL has to offer.

MELCROSSWHITE Why is it in pop-up form instead of being automatic like AOL updates have always been?

AOLTechJMV Ok please allow me to explain …
AOLTechJMV If the update will be done automatically, it would possibly create a problem or conflict. That is why they just did it through popup.