Google-Friendly Title: Funko Embraces AI for Cybersecurity with Brandshield

Funko has issued a statement regarding the temporary shutdown of Itch.io, allegedly caused by their brand protection software, BrandShield. The company emphasized its respect for the indie gaming community and clarified its role in the incident.

Funko's Response: No Full Takedown Requested

Funko's official X (formerly Twitter) post stated their appreciation for indie games and developers. They acknowledged that BrandShield flagged an Itch.io page mimicking the Funko Fusion development website, leading to a takedown request. Crucially, Funko clarified they did not request a takedown of the entire Itch.io platform and expressed relief at its swift restoration.

Funko confirmed they are in communication with Itch.io to address the issue and thanked the gaming community for its understanding.

However, Itch.io owner Leaf's Hacker News post provides a more nuanced account. He described the action 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, in contrast to Funko's statement, that Funko's team contacted his mother.

For further details on the Itch.io shutdown, refer to Game8's previous article.