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ActiveX is a technology created by Microsoft which is used to display interactive content on the web. The code is downloaded then executed by the browser, a bit like downloading a Java applet or a video. The applets have full access to Window's system using shared code libraries.

These shared code libraries give you access to ActiveX controls — the controls you find in Windows such as the text box, check box, and drop down box. There are also code libraries that you can refer to, which lets you do common Windows tasks.

Due to this close link with Windows code libraries, there is a possibility of downloading and running code which could compromise your computer: the ActiveX controls have full control over the operating system, so it could install viruses and spyware, or use the computer to send spam emails or other such tasks.