My files on my desktop disappeared and they turned into shortcuts. Now i can't open them. What do i do?

Try accessing them the the Start Menu. Most items on the desktop are shortcuts so i dont know why you have a problem with opening them. If not, access the Control Panel, from there you can choose which icons you want on the desktop, like My Computer. I think its in the Appearence or something like that, just look around.

You might also have a virus.

Immediately launch system restore from Start - all programs - accessories - system tools - system restore

Pick the date before this incident happened and restore. With any luck, after a reboot, your files should reappear on your desktop. Windows do not transform folders into shortcuts by itself, could someone have touched your PC when you are away? If not, your PC security might have been compromised. Ensure you have an antivirus and antispyware updated and run a full scan.

Some good ones:

AVAST Home Edition

http://download.cnet.com/Avast%20Home%20Edition%20...

Malwarebytes Anti Malware:

http://www.malwarebytes.org/mbam-download.php

What files? Check "my documents", etc. If that doesn't work, open drive "c", find your documents and settings and look in there for the files. If all that fails, try to restore to a time before it happened.

There maybe a virus that has infected your system. Try Avira Free Antivir

i could reformat living house windows, backup the bare necessities you rather need to a distinctive risk-free place, and initiate from scratch. earlier you attempt which you would be able to attempt a scourge test in risk-free mode...additionally seem up some thing referred to as Norton capability Eraser (loose)

URGENT ! Scan ur system right now for bulk amount of viruses.but with a good antivirus.

the same happened to me and AVG fixed the problem