InBox

By DON McALLISTER

Welcome to InBox, where we attempt to answer your internet questions.

Q. Earl had some connection problems with Xtra and created a new dialup connection. In doing so he created another problem: "If I open up Internet Explorer and connect to the internet, then try to open up Outlook Express, I lose my internet connection and have to connect again."

A. The email account settings are pointing to the old dialup, Earl, whereas Internet Explorer points to the new "Default" dialup. Try this: Go to Outlook Express/Tools/Accounts/Mail/Properties/Connection. Either remove the tick from "always connect to this account using" or change the listed connection in the dropdown menu.

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Q. Gerald feels duped by an email which suggested he should buy software he didn't need. "I opened it and thought it was from Microsoft so I sent details of my credit card to pay for the annual subscription (US$134.50). Later, I was surprised to find that it was spam email and that what I had subscribed to wasn't anything to do with Microsoft. What can you tell me about this organisation called 'Evidence Eliminator'? Is it genuine or have I been scammed? If so, what can I do about it?"

A. Unfortunately, "Robin Hood Software" (the product marketer) has used dubious Evidence Eliminator marketing strategies similar to this for years, Gerald. The issue isn't that the software is bogus (though some users do disagree with its capability claims), but that people purchase after being led to believe they are at risk. Because it is a legitimate British-based product, there's little you can do, but if the email clearly implied that it was Microsoft-recommended then I suggest you forward the original letter to Microsoft with a short letter of complaint. It may take action.

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Q. "I am unable to move from Outlook Express to a site by clicking on any underlined link, unless I copy and paste it to my browser," grumbles Brian.

A. Have you changed your default browser recently, Brian? Set Internet Explorer as the Default Browser. Go to IE/Tools/Internet Options/Programs. Place a tick beside "Internet Explorer should check whether it is the default Browser" click Apply, then okay. If that doesn't work see this support page.


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