Encountered a problem with the my.yahoo.com website due to http user_agent
blocking at the firewall. Seems that my.yahoo.com checks user_agent to
qualify a browser as cookies and tables capable. If it doesn't receive a
correct "user_agent" it gives you a web page saying my-yahoo requires
cookies. If you send a correct user_agent you can subscribe to my-yahoo.
Once subscribed the site does not check user_agent since you are then
sending the proper cookies. Have queried Yahoo for clarification but no
response to date.
Seeking some comments on:
1) pros and cons of blocking transmittal of user_agent
(user_agent provides type of browser, version and platform)
2) how widespread user_agent may be used to deny website services
3) any workarounds people may have found
Tom Nakamura
tom @
hughes .
com
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