XP updates, “never ask again” not option anymore?

I have Win XP Pro (SP2). I have automatic update on, but set to ask me. I used to be able to uncheck updates (like Malicious Software Removal Tool or Genuine (Dis)Advantage (AKA MS SPYWARE TOOLS)) and it would give me the option to say “Never ask about these updates again” (or something similar). That option is no longer presented. When I “uncheck” updates I don’t want and close, it just pops up and asks again. Is there a setting that I inadvertently changed or did MS decide they wanted to be even more annoying than they already are?
I will never trust my PC security to MS, and as thus, the “malicious” software removal tool. I have other tools for removing spyware/Adware that are much more reliable. I update security patches, but the fact that windows needs so many security patches just goes to show how poorly they design security.

You should always update your PC.
The malicious software removal tool removes spyware, nothing fishy about it.

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