Polonus read this:
Optimize XP - Spyware ProtectionWhat happens if people remove the MSJVM completely with this removal tool to be found here:
http://www.majorgeeks.com/download4158.html?. It is not generally supported by MS, only for admins etc. because the changes for XP are irreversible.
What happens? You don't get infected with autoinstalling spyware. The tool is necessary however you have to also run the registry fix otherwise it will not be properly removed. You can use the tool on any version of windows. FYI Windows XP SP1a and SP2 remove MSJVM by default. As for it being irreversible, it is as far as MSJVM goes, but you don't want or need it so this is a good thing.
How does that effect your OS and other programs?
It doesn't, just install Sun's Java instead.
What are the dangers?
None.
Can this also be done for older platforms as well like in Windows 98SE?
Not only can it be done it is mandatory. This is the single biggest exploit that no one fixes.
. And what replacement do you have, also what are the consequences of such a choice? Can you explain on this please.
Java is made by Sun get the latest version from Sun. People think Microsoft made MSJVM, no they licensed it, it is really Java v1.1.4 where Sun is up to v1.5.0_05. Consequences are you do not get infected with autoinstalling spyware anymore.
Then a second point, why people put special hosts lists still on the net?
Because they think they need them.
Why anti-spyware programs still propagate the use?
Which ones? Spybot comes with a very limited one as an "extra" option that is not by default enabled. They rarely update it and don't recommend using it.
Is your story exclusively for the Win2xxx and the Win XP (Pro) etc users? What comes after MSJV is no longer supported, that is after 2007? Will MS look for a foreseeable future where Java and Javascript's role is taken over by other instant script languages?
This effects all versions of Windows. Microsoft was sued by Sun for violating their licensing agreement and don't really care about Java support. The latest version of Java is free to download and install for all Windows users Win98SE and newer. If you have an older OS you can dig up an older version of Java but no one should be running anything older then that and realistically if you are running Windows you should only be using 2000 or XP.
MSJVM serves no purpose but to leave large security exploits on your machine.