Vandal

A vandal typically refers to a Java applet or an Active X control. It’s intentions may be harmful, malicious or to simply annoy a user. Since various applets and scripts can be easily embedded into any HTML file, a vandal can be distributed via email attachment or forced on a user. In this case, it is often called a virus or hostile applet. The best protection against a vandal is to remain cautious of email attachments and other downloadable content. While most prominent corporate web sites are unlikely to be the source of a vandal, it is possible. This was the case in 1997 when an Active X control from an adult website was designed to reconnect users over an expensive international line. Another incident involved a group of German hackers. They developed an Active X control that had the ability to transfer funds from one bank account to another without the consent or knowledge of the victim.