In a controversial move Microsoft is considering buying
adware developer Claria, formerly known as Gator.
US newspapers report that Microsoft may buy the company after an
approach from the adware specialist, whose products enable on-line
advertisers to target internet users by recording their web
activity.
The deal may founder, however, as Microsoft has already
expressed concern about how the purchase would be viewed by the
public.
The acquisition could be seen to fly in the face of Microsoft’s
talk about developing products to counter spyware. Claria’s
solutions could also be used by Microsoft’s MSN portal to generate
better targeted advertising.
Claria changed its name from Gator in 2003. Its web browser
toolbar, for instance, has been used on peer-to-peer networks, with
users agreeing to the pop-up ads it generates on their desktops in
return for getting free access to music and video clips.
