This form of blocking has been going on for years, not months. I never did find out any information about it. Microsoft loves to obscure stuff. They can't store passwords correctly, either.
This **** is why I never use the browser given by MicroSux to see anything but the weather. I was forced to have Windows installed as my disability doesn't allow me to work on my own PC anymore, and I am a Linux fan. The PC store refuses to touch a Linux PC unless it's to wipe the drive and install Windows.