iPad runs slow and keeps freezing.

Your iPad seeming running "slowly" is very unlikely to be a symptom of malware.

Providing that your iPad has been kept up-to-date with system software updates, you should not be overly concerned for your iPad being directly compromised by malware. Due to the system architecture of iOS/iPadOS, unless jailbroken, your iPad is not susceptible to traditional malware infection.

There are no Antivirus Products available for iOS/iPadOS. Those that claim to provide AV protection are little more than “snake oil” - and should generally be avoided.  The iPad's sandboxed security architecture that actively prevents malware from infecting your device also prevents software from accessing anything outside of its own sandbox. As such, virus scanning software cannot access the iPadOS filesystem.

If your iPad is performing sub-optimally, ensure that you have not filled your available storage space. It is generally recommended that you maintain at least 4-6GB of free-space at all times.

A forced-restart may be helpful in releasing system resources - and may improve performance:

Force restart iPad (models with Face ID or with Touch ID in the top button)

If your iPad doesn’t have the Home button, do the following:

1. Press and quickly release the volume button nearest to the top button.
2. Press and quickly release the volume button farthest from the top button.
3. Press and hold the top button.
4. When the Apple logo appears, release the top button.

Force restart iPad (models with the Home button)

Press and hold the top button and the Home button at the same time. When the Apple logo appears, release both buttons.