Lost passwords can be recovered

By Kim Komando
Gannett News Service

Q. I saved my Web site passwords in Internet Explorer. While I can still get into the sites, I would like to know the password hidden behind the asterisks. Is there a way?

A. Most Web sites will e-mail you a forgotten password. Check the site's help area. But there are a couple of free, nifty programs that can recover passwords. They are Asterisk Key (lostpassword.com/asterisk.htm) and Revelation (snadboy.com). Show them the asterisks in any program and they'll tell you the password.

Q. I am concerned about the so-called "SuperCookie" in Windows Media Player. Does it really track wherever I go on the Internet?

A. Last year, a privacy flaw was discovered in Windows Media Player that allowed Web sites to track where you surfed, even if you weren't using the player. Microsoft updated the player, allowing customers to turn off the SuperCookie in Version 8 or earlier. Select Tools, Options and clear the box next to "Allow Internet sites to uniquely identify your player." Better yet, use Windows Media Player Version 9, which has the fix built-in. You can find the file at microsoft.com/downloads.

Q. Is there a place on the Internet where I could find a good cheap (or free) Internet service provider in my hometown?

A. FreedomList (freedomlist.com) and FindAnISP (findanisp.com) are two good sites to check. Be sure to read the customer comments. There appear to be more complaints about free services than those that charge. Customer service is expensive to provide, so the free services are probably at a disadvantage there.