Garmin can unlock device or disable password, becouse they create this FW for Where2 company and they know how to install regular FW with no password function.

When you first time flash your unit, gupdate.gcd was not stored on device but desapire after flash and this enable protection in device.
Where2 company have this password set, so user must enter it every month 1 time.

When you downgrade FW, you reset device settings and this is reason why you enable password screen, becouse device think that one month period is over and is time to enter password.

If you buy where2 device on auction and if when you got it in hand you don't see password, belive me in one month you will see this password screen automatic.

To all user who see where2 device on ebay, be aware that you will see password screen in 1 month period, so if you like to buy this device you will have it for parts or call Garmin if they can help you ( but you must pay Garmin to remove password ).
If you buy where2 device on some live auction, hard reset device before you pay, to see if password is enabled or not.