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Brandshield AI Restores Itch.io After Takedown

by Grace Jan 24,2025

Funko Responds as Itch.io Recovers from Shut Down by AI-Powered Brandshield

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 Clarification: No Full Takedown Intended

Funko acknowledged that 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 a takedown of the entire Itch.io platform and expressed relief at the platform's swift restoration.

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

Funko Responds as Itch.io Recovers from Shut Down by AI-Powered Brandshield

However, Itch.io owner Leaf provided a more nuanced 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.

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