Should have added that step 3 isn't quite how IE v6 works.

When you get to Tools | Internet Options | Security | Custom Lvel , you have a number of options relating to ActiveX.

You have 5 ActiveX options, and you can set all to disabled if you don't want to use it at all.

The first 2 deal with downloaded ActiveX controls - I'd recommend setting it to disabled for unsigned controls, and prompt for signed ones.

The last 3 deal with actually running ActiveX code, which again you should set to disable, prompt, prompt.
Which means every time ActiveX does something, you are asked if you wish to proceed.
This can be annoying if you are using ActiveX for lots of things, but shouldn't cause a problem for a normal home PC.

As an example, I always disallow ActiveX when using this forum.