Looks like our worst fears may be realized:

Microsoft Downgrades Claria Adware Detection
Amidst rumors they might buy the company
Spyware researcher Eric Howes stops by our Security forum to point out that Microsoft has downgraded its detection of Claria spyware in its latest anti-spyware version update (#5731). This of course comes the same week rumors began to emerge that the company might be buying the adware company once known as Gator.
http://www.broadbandreports.com/shownews/65153

I've recently been testing the MSAS beta, however I think I'll just stick with SBS&D and Sunbelt from now on.