I have found a way to 'return' and view all of the broken images of all photographs uploaded by members to threads containing photobucket uploads, and also for other websites you might visit with broken photobucket links.
In order to use this 'fix' you must be using firefox or googlechrome. the 'hot fix' for both browsers was designed by the same developer and is just an extension to either firefox, or chrome. this is safe to install.
extension for firefox:
Firefox Photobucket Hotlink Fixsimple to install, just click on the 'Add to Firefox' button.
extension for chrome:
Chrome Photobucket Hotlink Fixhopefully this extension will work for awhile.
the drawback is saving the image. you will have to take a screenshot of the image to download it.
if you try to save the image to your pc, the downloaded pic will just show photobuckets 'hostage' sign.