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What is ActiveX

ActiveX is technology from Microsoft that provides tools for linking desktop applications to the World Wide Web. Using a variety of programming tools, including Java, Visual Basic, and C++ developers can create interactive Web content. For instance, ActiveX technology can allow users to view Word and Excel documents directly in a browser, or be used to display a Flash animation or a PDF file.

But you should be careful clicking on such links, you have no idea what the link applet may actually do. Of course like all aspects of security, you need to use common sense in deciding whether or not to block or allow ActiveX. Sites like Amazon and BBCi don't run malicious applets, your OK allowing these sites ActiveX. About the only thing that you may not want to allow them ActiveX for is if the element embedded in the page using ActiveX is some kind of ad like a Flash banner.

ActiveX needs a container to run, browsers are the most common containers but ActiveX can be used in many programs.

Unless you spend all your time visiting underground sites, there's no reason why you can't enjoy the benefits ActiveX brings to your browsing. Unless of course you don't actually like Flash web sites (philistines!), how could you not like the Mr. Hell, or Amélie web sites. These are just some examples of sites you wouldn't be able to access if you blocked ActiveX to all sites.

For more Information:

Google search for ActiveX Exploits
The Register - Are AxtiveX controls dangerous?

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