Itch.io Restores Service Following False Phishing Report from Funko: What You Need to Know

Itch.io Restores Service After Phishing Report Incident

Source: GamesIndustry.biz

Temporary Shutdown Due to Incorrect Phishing Claim

• Itch.io, a popular indie games platform, was temporarily taken offline due to a bogus phishing report.
• The incident was allegedly instigated by Funko, known for their collectible figurines, using AI-powered brand protection software, Brand Shield.
• The registrar, iwantmyname, disabled the domain after receiving the report, despite Itch.io's response clarifying the situation.

Restoration of Service

• As of now, Itch.io has been restored and is fully functional.
• The exact reasons behind Funko or Brand Shield's initiation of the report remain unclear.

Itch.io's Stance on AI Usage

• Recently, Itch.io has introduced a policy requiring developers to declare if generative AI was used in their games.
• This new requirement aims to promote transparency regarding the technology used in game development.

Community Support and Additional Initiatives

• Itch.io has also successfully raised over $900,000 in aid for Palestine through various bundles.
• In the past, the platform organized campaigns contributing $8.1 million towards racial justice and equality.