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ActiveX controls - dangerous or not?

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Liz

Liz Report 7 Mar 2007 15:01

More and more sites require this to be downloaded before full access is granted - but Microsoft say they can damage the computer!! At the moment I am too scared to down load it. What damage can it do? Comments and advice needed please. Liz

blueberry

blueberry Report 7 Mar 2007 15:28

An ActiveX control is similar to a Java applet. Unlike Java applets, however, ActiveX controls have full access to the Windows operating system. This gives them much more power than Java applets, but with this power comes a certain risk that the applet may damage software or data on your machine. To control this risk, Microsoft developed a registration system so that browsers can identify and authenticate an ActiveX control before downloading it. Another difference between Java applets and ActiveX controls is that Java applets can be written to run on all platforms, whereas ActiveX controls are currently limited to Windows environments. Liz, Have just found this info, don't know if it's of any use to you. Barbara.

☼ Orangeblossom ☼ - Tracy

☼ Orangeblossom ☼ - Tracy Report 7 Mar 2007 15:46

Depends who wants to put the ActiveX control on your PC. Most sites that you use will probably be ok. You do have to watch out for the more 'unscrupulous' ones though.

Liz

Liz Report 7 Mar 2007 15:52

Sorry I had to leave computer for a short while thanks to both of you for replying Barbara- I have got Windows XP 2 so feel a little bit safer after your reply. Think I will now gird up my loins and have a go many thanks Liz

Heather

Heather Report 7 Mar 2007 16:09

I always think thats a bit silly when they give you that message - Ive even had it on microsoft sites ???? I think its a bit like saying do it at your own risk just in case you are on a dodgey site, but even Marks and Spencers etc have that active x thing now and if you dont click on it you cant see any of the photos.