[David Christensen]

Ever since either the latest software update or a hard reset I did I am getting pestered by messages about downloading or updating apps - and frankly no, I do not and never will want Flappy Birds on my handset - and this is becoming a real nuisance.

How do I turn off this unwanted intrusion into my life?

[xandros9]

From "settings", go to the "applications" section, scroll down to "store" and change the settings there to your hearts content.

Alternatively (same end result) go to the Store app, and access the settings there from the "..." menu.

[David Christensen]

Thanks but on my phone when I get to the Store setting I have just the PIN set/unset plus links to Store Terms of Use and Privacy Statement - nothing else.

[xandros9]

Oh I'm sorry I assumed you were using Windows Phone 8.1 which has auto-updating.

Windows Phone 8 shouldn't alert you to updates, just increase the store's tile count.

I'm not entirely sure I know what you mean. WP never alerts you to apps to install unless I'm mistaken.
Could it be a rogue app?