Since learning from one of you guys that my computer has likely been "hijacked", I unplug it from the DSL line when I'm not using it. Will that make any real difference?

I haven't yet purchased any programs to scan my computer to see if/where it's been gotten into. I also need to set up a firewall. I went to Comp USA the other day and couldn't tell if any program was better than the rest. After one of the reps paiged someone to come help me and no one showing up five minutes later, I decided they didn't deserve my business and left.

Haven't had time to do anything more since.