Funko has issued a statement regarding the temporary suspension of the indie game platform Itch.io, allegedly triggered by their brand protection software. Let's delve into Funko's response. Funko Denies Requesting a Full Site Shutdown
Private Discussions Underway with Itch.io
Funko's official X (formerly Twitter) account addressed the situation, emphasizing their respect for the indie gaming community and its developers. They confirmed that their brand protection partner, BrandShield, flagged an Itch.io page mimicking the Funko Fusion development website, resulting in a takedown request. Crucially, Funko clarified that they did not request the entire platform be taken down and expressed relief at its swift restoration.
Funko stated they are now in direct communication with Itch.io to resolve the matter and thanked the gaming community for their understanding.
However, Itch.io's owner, Leaf, provided a more nuanced account on Hacker News, revealing the takedown stemmed from a "fraud and phishing report," not just a simple request. This report targeted both the hosting provider and the domain registrar, leading to the automated shutdown of the entire domain despite Leaf's immediate action to remove the offending page. Leaf also noted, in a detail omitted from Funko's statement, that Funko's team contacted his mother.
For a more comprehensive understanding of the events leading to Itch.io's temporary shutdown, please refer to Game8's previous report.
