This is something that has just started.

When someone posts a video I get a gray circle with an exclamation mark in the circle. Around the gray circle is a white ring, with a gray ring around that. If I right click on the exclamation mark, then click on properties a window opens where I can copy the url. I copy the url, open a new tab and paste the url in the address box, then click on the arrow. It will open the thread, and the videos will be displayed.

The BR banner at the top of the page also shows the same exclamation mark, circle, ring icon.

What's with the exclamation mark in the gray circle, and what must I do to get the videos to show when I first open a thread?

It's not just this website. It happens on others, while some websites' videos show up without going through the above procedure.

What browser? What OS?

Sounds like a browser problem with video format encoding

windows seven, Internet Explorer

windows seven, Internet Explorer

Latest, most up to date version of IE?

Try this page:

http://helpx.adobe.com/flash-player/kb/video-doesnt-display-internet-explorer.html

Also, make sure Flash Player is up to date:

http://get.adobe.com/flashplayer/

If none of that helps, it seems that it is a problem many users are facing:

http://forums.adobe.com/message/4500900#4500900

Under the assumption that it is the memory leak I referenced with the last link, here is a "fix" (band-aid is more like it):

http://forum.playdom.com/showthread.php?39805-How-to-Force-Exit-Flash-Player-without-Restarting-your-PC

1. Close all Internet Explorer windows.

2. Launch Windows Task Manager using one of the following.

a. Press CTRL+SHIFT+ESC

b. Right-click on your Start bar (next to the Start button is a good spot) and select "Task Manager from the list.

c. Press Windows Key+R or Click Start->Run.

i. Type "taskmgr" in the run "Open" box and click "OK".

3. Click the Processes tab and select and "End Process" on any iexplore.exe processes you see running.

4. Relaunch IE.

Latest, most up to date version of IE?

No, can't do it. IE9 is not compatible with our wireless printer. Canon PIxma MG5220.

Never had this problem until recently. All the latest updates and downloads are installed. Have run the updates and computer automated tune ups.

Regarding the flash player. I do get messages saying I need to install the latest version, but when I try to download it I get a message that the latest version is already installed.

Regarding the flash player. I do get messages saying I need to install the latest version, but when I try to download it I get a message that the latest version is already installed.

Sometimes you need to manually download it from the site because, well, Flash Player is a POS that is hoisted upon us and it's death will be welcomed by ALL.

ALL HAIL HTML5! (or whatever else wholly replaces Flash)

Thanks. I went through the "end process" directions above. The videos are now loading fine. I stored the directions in one of the drawers on the computer desk for future reference.

Thanks. I went through the "end process" directions above. The videos are now loading fine. I stored the directions in one of the drawers on the computer desk for future reference.

Ahh, then you seem to be afflicted with the aforementioned memory leak. This is the first I have heard of it.

Ahh, then you seem to be afflicted with the aforementioned memory leak. This is the first I have heard of it.

Well, truth be told I am afflicted by a memory leak, but I wouldn't expect my young computer to have similar problems.

Using IE is a big enough problem, they make 12 step programs for that type of affliction.

Using IE is a big enough problem, they make 12 step programs for that type of affliction.

I agree. You need to be using a different browser. Using IE is like riding a bicycle on the interstate.

Uninstall Flash, reboot and reinstall. Download and install Firefox. Start getting used to it, and stop using IE.