| When you loaded your
CD-ROM, did you get a message like this?
Many people do, and some have told us that it
concerns them -- makes them worry about using our CD-ROMs!
Here's a little information about what "active
content" is, how that applies to our CD-ROMs, and why it's okay to
permit active content to run from our CD-ROMs.
QUESTION: Just what does "active content"
mean?
Answer: Basically, it means any
situation where a step you take -- like loading a CD-ROM -- initiates a
series of steps that are under the program control. Computer
people refer to these as "ActiveX Controls" or "Scripts" and they are
used to enhance your viewing experience. However, like any
technology, there is always the possibility that some unscrupulous
person will abuse it. That is why this message appears.
QUESTION: What should I do when I get
this message?
Answer: Evaluate the source of the
CD-ROM that you've loaded. Reputable businesses that value your
patronage will not create CD-ROMs that do anything beside their intended
purpose.
QUESTION: It's annoying to see this
message. How can I prevent seeing it again?
Answer: Microsoft has made that
part easy. You'll notice the check box in the message that says
"In the future, do not show this message" is pre-checked. That
means that, if you leave the box checked, and click "Yes" you will not
be bothered with the message again -- at least until you make changes to
your browser. In our experience, the fact that Microsoft has
pre-checked the box is an indication that this is not what they view as
a serious threat.
QUESTION: How can I learn more about
active content and security?
Answer: A great place to start is
by clicking the "What you should know about active content" hyperlink in
the message. It will lead to a complete, and not overly technical,
discussion of the subject. But be prepared to spend some time
exploring the various topics it covers!
Want to discuss any of this with us at Between the
Lakes Group? Here's contact information.
We hope this information has been helpful to you.
Please let us have your suggestions for how we can improve this page.
Contact us! |
