Not if you've had to click on a button in order to initiate the process. Then it becomes user initiated action, which is OK.
Step 1 - click on "check online for updates" button in settings panel.
Step 2 - read information returned in info dialog box, e.g. "You are using MA version 3. Version 3.1 is available if you would like to upgrade. To upgrade click the 'Upgrade' button below." Or alternatively, "You are already using the latest version of MA."
Step 3 - click 'Upgrade' button or 'Cancel' button if an upgrade is available. If no upgrade is available then click 'OK' to close information dialog box and return to settings panel.
It seems to me you get the best of both worlds that way. No spam. No unauthorised internet activity. Easy way to update. Job done.