We regret this inconvenience, but the Web site you were accessing has chosen to block Internet Explorer. The owner of that site has chosen to block Microsoft's browser because of its inherent insecurity and liability risk to them. In other words, they do not want to be held accountable for any incidents that arise because of security holes in Microsoft Internet Explorer. Those security holes are impossible to completely fix because of the way IE and Windows are so tightly bundled together. Many of the problems in Internet Explorer could have been avoided if it was released as a standalone program, but Microsoft would rather destroy its competitors through illegal methods than protect the security and privacy of its customers. Yes, your personal privacy has been sacrificed in the name of Microsoft's pocketbook.

So what can you do to protect your personal privacy and gain access to the Web content that was blocked? Upgrade to a more secure browser that was designed from the start with security features that keep you safe as you use the Internet.
We personally recommend the multi-platform Opera browser, which includes an e-mail program to replace Microsoft's equally insecure Outlook Express. Opera is available for Windows, Mac OS, Linux, BeOS, and EPOC, with Palm OS and OS/2 versions expected soon. It can be downloaded in less than 15 minutes with a standard Internet connection, so it doesn't take a lot of time to try this one out. [MORE ABOUT OPERA]
Of course, as long as IE is installed your system still won't be completely secure, even if you don't use it. Hidden files allow crackers to enter your system and permit viruses to wreak havoc. And those extra unneeded browser files can add up to 50MB to the size of Windows and slow down the entire system. But there's hope - you can completely remove IE from any version of Windows 9X (95, 98, SE, ME) with the IEradicator, a free script from the people who produced 98Lite. [MORE ABOUT IERADICATOR]
If you use a Mac, you might also want to check out iCab. iCab is an extremely small but very powerful Web browser than doesn't include a lot of unnecessary features, but allows a unique level of customization - especially where security is concerned. Why make a relatively secure system like the Mac OS open to viruses and malicious hackers when you can take care of all that by simply replacing Internet Explorer? [MORE ABOUT iCAB]

If you still aren't convinced, we encourage you to check out the following links and read more about how Internet Explorer is putting your computer security and personal privacy at risk.

SecurityFocus: IE Vulnerabilities
Internet Explorer "Open Cookie Jar"

While this page is provided as a service of The MSBC, we are not associated with the above links or any page implementing our IError script.

Tuesday, 22-Aug-2006 18:57:09 EDT