I have been trying to play a few wmv files I have downloaded recently with Windows Media Player 10. Each time I open a file, I get the message that I need a security upgarde! How is it that I don't need this 'upgrade' to play my old files? What is this about? Are they trying to collect info from my PC?

"Are they trying to collect info from my PC?" That's possible, but more likely they are just trying to get you to sign up for some service and get money from you. Do yourself a favor BACKUP!!!

By the way, that's not Microsoft, if you were thinking that it was. It's the person who created the video. Do yourself a favor BACKUP!!!

I'm not sure if your guess is right. There is a 'more info' button on the message that takes me to MS web site, so it shouldn't be a third party issue. Is there anyway that I could avoid this? Can I use another player?

There is some code imbedded in the video that says it needs a license to view. WMP recognizes that code and displays the message. There 'might' be players that ignore the code. Here's an example: http://creativecommons.org/video/ Do yourself a favor BACKUP!!!

Thank you for your attention ham30, I have been up & down the creativecommons website but haven't seen a downloadable player! I don't think they have one!!