When it does not show the * then edtit the 46xxsettings.txt
Put in a password you like.
When the phone is done booting then enter password, clear and #
Then put in a default 46xxsettings.txt before the phone asks for it and you are done.
Then it will be back.
After putting vpn software on it, it is gone again.
BAZINGA!
I'm not insane, my mother had me tested!