XP- SP3 - cannot activate "Auto Updates"

[smokinguntoo]

I was using avg anti-virus. First hint of trouble is automatic updates could not be started from the tray or the control panel. Then pop-ups. Downloaded Spybot S&D - it cleaned "vernaudo (sp) virus" and all worked - for about 10 minutes. Even contributed to their web site.

It's baaaaack. Now Spybot S&D won't work either. Tried some suggestions from previous posts. Nothing. What is going on here? I do have a Hijcakthislog. Any assisatnce appreciated.
Smokinguntoo