In an attempt to fix an issue --- that the user interface was randomly opening up on its own --- avast issued an [emergency] update. However, it appears that this update made things significantly worse --- the avast interface no longer recognizes its own services and database [:S] There are now MANY dissatisfied users bombarding the avast forum to complain.
I'm not 100% certain of this... but based on what I've read in the forum --- and just now confirmed on one of my computers --- it appears the buggy update is version 12.2.2276 - build 12.2.3126.2 ; the final digit, 2, distinguishes this update from earlier (good) ones.
For more information, see the ongoing discussions: You are unprotected! Avast Background service is not running: