AP9630 NMC Access

[FTL]

Hi all

I'm been battling for the last few weeks to access the web interface for a NMC AP9630 - when I tried to access it via web console I get the following error:
Protected Object
This object on the APC Management Web Server is protected.

I'm on Windows 11 using Google Chrome (ver. 108)
I did some searching here in the community and found that this is an issue with https and could also be browser related - I tried using an IE 11 emulator but got the same result.
I then read that the HTTPS could be activated via console access - so I purchased the APC DP9 serial (pin) cable 9400299A and tried to access the NMC via console / telnet (MS Windows 11).
I get the username prompt however when providing apc & apc for username and password it does not take it even though I have reset the NMC using the hardware reset.
I've read in other threads that other NMC have back door passwords - I'm supplying my serial number of the NMC too in the chance this might be my way in > ZA1515003074
Please advise