If you were using a program (which came with your camera) to transfer the pictures it's probably just a fault with that software. However you don't need it anyway.
Either:
(a) connect your camera to your computer with a USB cable ; or (far better)
(b) take the memory card out of the camera and put it into your computer's card reader. (No card reader? A USB one will only cost you a quid!
http://www.poundland.co.uk/leisure-and-entertainment/entertainment/computer-accessories/signalex-multislot-card-reader-assorted )
Then go to 'Computer' and double-click on the icon for your camera/card reader. You'll probably need to double-click on one or two folders but you'll eventually get to your pictures.
Then open another window displaying the contents of 'My Pictures' (or wherever you want your pictures to end up).
Then simply 'drag and drop' your pictures from one window to the other.