Software rule #3 - When in doubt, blame the other guy.
You can choose which updates to install by de-selecting the automatic radio button in the My Computer properties > Automatic Updates Tab. Then click the Windows update balloon when it appears in the tray (by the clock, lower rigjht) and select custom update.
Meanwhile, most Windows updates can be uninstalled. If you know the offending one, remove it from the add/remove programs area in Control Panel. Check the box in the upper right to show updates that have been applied.
Good Luck!