Funko Protects Brand with Brandshield AI as Itch.io Resurfaces

Funko Responds to Itch.io Shutdown Caused by BrandShield

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

Funko acknowledges that BrandShield flagged an Itch.io page mimicking the Funko Fusion development website, resulting in a takedown request. Crucially, Funko clarifies that they did not request a full platform takedown and expressed relief at Itch.io's swift restoration.

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

However, Itch.io owner Leaf's account on Hacker News reveals a more complex situation. The incident involved a "fraud and phishing report," not just a simple takedown request, impacting both the hosting and registrar, leading to the automated shutdown of the entire domain. Leaf's immediate action to remove the offending page was insufficient to prevent the shutdown. Furthermore, Leaf's account mentions contact from Funko's team to his mother, a detail omitted from Funko's official statement.

For a more detailed account of the Itch.io shutdown, please refer to Game8's previous article.