ActiveX download safety

when you go to a webpage that says you must download an active X file to access the page, how do you know it's safe? I get the small bar under the address bar. If you click on it you are given the choice to download or not. If I'm going to a site I know I always say yes (for instance a financial site or others I frequent), but unknown sites scare me although I'd like to open the page.
Whats a fellow to do? Whats safe and can those downloads be mischievous files?
Thanks
Floyd

 

Hello floyd,

Good rule of thumb - just say no.

Most of the time, whatever it is they want to do - and you're right to be suspicious - has no effect on the text info. Alot of times its about adding glitz, and sometimes its about adware/malware. If somethings missing, such as a hyperlink or part of the web page that you expect and need, then reload the page and answer yes.

Can't answer what's safe - thats a matter of judgement I'm afraid.

Regards - Charles

 

floyd--As charlesvar says, it is matter of judgement.
But, some important sites require that you download ActiveX controls and allow their use--at least in Internet Explorer. The most important is Windows Update. Also any page that wants to show you a Flash image will require it.
If you really trust the site, then put it into your Trusted Sites (IE Tools|Internet Options|Security tab|Trusted Site|Sites). (Uncheck the box "Require server verification... ")
Also there are two different issues. One is downloading ActiveX controls. The other is allowing them to run. I agree with charlesvar that in the latter case, you often can see the site just fine by just clicking off the warning message. Windows Update, however, requires the download and allowing it to run. That is taken care of by putting Windows Update's URL into Trusted Sites as mentioned.

 

With few exceptions, if I can't view a page without downloading some kind of activex control, I just move on. There's always another page out there somewhere that has what I want without having to download anything. A few exceptions would be windows update, online virus scanners, perhaps online trojain scanners, etc. Other than things like these, as I said, I just go on my merry way and don't lose any sleep over what I might be missing. Much safer that way.

 

Hi Zander,

This is a test. Seems any thread I post to disappears from "new posts ". Under the sections - XP for example, its ok.

Regards - Charles