Funko Responds to Itch.io Shutdown Caused by BrandShield
Funko has issued a public statement addressing the temporary shutdown of the Itch.io indie game marketplace, allegedly triggered by its brand protection software, BrandShield. The statement, posted on X (formerly Twitter), emphasizes Funko's respect for the indie gaming community and its creators.
Funko acknowledges that BrandShield flagged an Itch.io page mimicking the Funko Fusion development website, resulting in a takedown request. Crucially, Funko clarifies that it did not request a full platform takedown and expresses relief that Itch.io was quickly restored.
The company states it's now in private discussions with Itch.io to resolve the issue and appreciates the gaming community's understanding.
However, Itch.io owner Leaf's Hacker News post provides a more nuanced account. He describes the incident not as a simple takedown request, but as a "fraud and phishing report" sent to both Itch.io's host and registrar. The registrar's automated system responded by taking down the entire domain, despite Leaf's swift removal of the offending page. Leaf also notes, unmentioned in Funko's statement, that Funko contacted his mother regarding the incident.
For further details on the Itch.io shutdown, refer to Game8's previous report.
