Microsoft-Say It Isn't So!

I'm not sure what to make of this one:

"Microsoft is in talks to buy controversial adware maker Claria for $500 million, according to a report in today's New York Times. The report said that Microsoft Chief Executive Steve Ballmer had given the go-ahead for the negotiations, which began two weeks ago, but that there has been opposition within Microsoft to the acquisition.

Claria, based in Redwood City, California, was previously known as Gator, but changed its name because of the controversial ad-delivering practices associated with Gator. Claria has been criticized by privacy groups because of the way its software tracks user habits and delivers pop-up ads. It has been sued by a number of companies for the practices, including the New York Times."-Microsoft Eyes Buying Controversial Adware Maker For $500 Million

What the heck are they smokin' up there in Redmond? The report also mentioned that Microsoft views this as a possible way to catch up with Google, but sheesh! couldn't they think of a better way than to partner with a company that is notorious for freezing or otherwise screwing up many, many people's computers? Including mine? Oy vey.

I'll report more as it comes across. For now, I am befuddled, to say the least.

Related: Gator/Claria and their ilk can be overcome by using Spyware and Adware Removers. If you've ever had weird pop-up windows that just won't go away, hijacked browser settings, internet preferences inexplicably changed, or a very slow web search experience, than you've most likely been the victim of spyware, adware, or malware.