ActiveX

Definition:
ActiveX is a software framework developed by Microsoft that allows different software components to interact and share information in a Windows environment. It was primarily used to enable interactive content in web browsers and other applications.

Purpose:
ActiveX controls can be embedded in web pages or applications to perform tasks like:

• Displaying animations or multimedia
• Interacting with software like Microsoft Excel or Word
• Running system-level operations such as file access or software installation

Security Concerns:
Early versions of ActiveX were notorious for security vulnerabilities. Because ActiveX controls had deep access to the Windows operating system, malicious or poorly written controls could:

• Install unwanted software
• Access sensitive files
• Take control of system functions

Hackers often exploited these flaws via Internet Explorer by tricking users into allowing harmful ActiveX controls to run.