Windows 10: Gray Xs on files in Explorer

I have recently noticed that my older files in Explorer before a certain date (basically 2017 and before) have a gray "x" on them and they don't seem to open anymore. Any idea what on earth is causing this? I NEED them! Help!

:)

 

Gray bar at bottom of each folder in large icons view

• What are the changes made or things you've done before the issue start? I ran hitmanpro.
• Do this gray bar displays on all folders and files in the File Explorer?
  The gray bar does display on all folders in the File Explorer but not individual files themselves. The gray bar only displays on all folders in view as Extra Large Icons, Large Icons, and Medium Icons. The gray bar does not show when view is either in Small
  Icons or List, or Details.
• Does the folders and files with the gray bar can still be accessed successfully?
  Yes all folders with the gray bar and the individual files in the folders can be accessed.

I am currently running System File Checker and will let you know if that works.

If if doesn't work then I'll run DISM or System Update Readiness tool as suggested.

Thank you so much.

*UPDATE*

The results of System File Checker says "Windows Resource Protection did not find any integrity violations."

Now I'll run DISM or System Update Readiness Tool as suggested.

 

File explorer icon from taskbar dissappears while working on it

Hi,

To assist you with your concern, we suggest you pin the File Explorer from the Start Menu by following these steps:

• Click the Start Menu.
• Right-click File Explorer.
• Choose Pin to taskbar.

If you need further assistance, feel free to reply to this post.

 

"Gray Screen of Death"

Thanks for your informative post!

I had solved my 2D & gray screen issue using advice posted by erocker (see below)
Mainly it involves creating a profile and putting higher 2D clocks: