“I’m afraid that’s a symptom of some spyware.”
Understood, but can you reach Windows Updates now?
First you have to get rid of the spyware. Have you tried system Restore?
There are numerous programs claiming to help. I’m not an expert on disinfecting.
I deal with business computers. I can’t afford to take the risk that a cleaner program will miss something. I use the Windows Backup program to make backups of “System State.” When I suspect malware I restore from backup, replacing programs and the Registry with an earlier clean version.
This is equivalent to using System Restore, but I found that spyware can disable System Restore.
What security software are you running?
I have two desktops at home: one with XP SP2 and IE6, and one with Vista SP1 and IE7. Both run Symantec security software and both came down with the inability to view Windows Updates (although they can access the site) at the same time. There appears to be a problem with a recent Symantec update. Turning off the security software while doing the Windows Update solved the problem. I also have a router with a hardware firewall, so the risk of exposure was low and short-lived.
Good luck!