Funko Restored: AI-Protected Itch.io Reopens

Funko has issued a statement regarding the temporary closure of Itch.io, allegedly triggered by its brand protection software. Let's delve into Funko's response. Funko Denies Ordering a Full Platform Takedown

Private Discussions with Itch.io Underway

Funko, via its official X (formerly Twitter) account, expressed its "deep respect and appreciation for indie games, gamers, and developers." They acknowledged that their brand protection partner, BrandShield, flagged an Itch.io page mimicking the Funko Fusion development website, leading to a takedown request. However, Funko emphasized that they did not request the entire platform be taken down and welcomed Itch.io's swift restoration.

Funko stated they've contacted Itch.io to address the situation and thanked the gaming community for its understanding.

However, Itch.io's owner, Leaf, clarified on Hacker News that the incident involved a "fraud and phishing report," not simply a takedown request. This report was sent to both the hosting provider and registrar, resulting in the automated shutdown of the entire domain despite Leaf's immediate action to resolve the problem. Leaf also noted (a detail omitted in Funko's statement) that Funko's team contacted his mother.

For more context on this incident, refer to Game8's previous report on Itch.io's temporary outage.