Funko Protects Brands on Itch.io with Brandshield's AI Power

Funko has issued a statement regarding the temporary shutdown of Itch.io, allegedly caused by their brand protection software, BrandShield. The statement, released on X (formerly Twitter), emphasizes Funko's respect for the indie gaming community.

Funko's Response: No Full Takedown Intended

Funko acknowledged that BrandShield flagged an Itch.io page mimicking the Funko Fusion development website, leading to a takedown request. Crucially, Funko clarified that they did not request a complete takedown of Itch.io and expressed relief at the platform's swift restoration.

Funko stated they are now in private discussions with Itch.io to resolve the issue and thanked the gaming community for their understanding.

However, Itch.io owner Leaf provided a different account on Hacker News, describing the incident not as a simple takedown request, but as a "fraud and phishing report" sent to both the hosting provider and registrar. The registrar's automated system responded by taking down the entire domain, despite Leaf's immediate action to remove the offending page. Leaf also noted, unmentioned in Funko's statement, that Funko's team contacted his mother.

For further details on the Itch.io shutdown, please refer to Game8's previous report.