From CNet News:
Microsoft is in discussions to buy controversial adware maker Claria, sources say, in a move to own an advertising network to compete with rivals Google and Yahoo.
Whether a deal will happen is unclear, according to sources familiar with the talks. But in the event that it does, Microsoft would likely face guff from consumer watchdogs for buying a company known for tracking Web surfers and delivering annoying pop-ups. (Microsoft’s MSN Internet arm stopped selling pop-ups more than a year ago.)
Representatives for Microsoft and Claria declined to comment on any talks.