Elements that disrupt the original design layout and as a result, get noticed.

They create cognitive awareness of new information that marketers insert into the message.

They're effective in announcing "new" product features and special promotional offers such as coupons, free offers, rebates and sweepstakes.

An unexpected website popup that shows after you're on a website for a certain amount of time is considered a violator.

Violators commonly take the form of starbursts, color bars or strips, and splats.

Each is just a way of highlighting the information you want your potential customer to notice most.