I’m pretty sure I know the site you’re talking about. I wouldn’t have even thought to look there, when I got the last post about the next update it definitely made me want to pay to be able to get that update. And I will. It’s true there’s not much you can do to prevent people from sharing things clandestinely, but you might be able to get some control over the posts or the thread on that site. I found the site I imagine you’re talking about while looking for older versions of a particular VN that I was having issues continuing due to bugs. Trying to track down a bug free version (for me) was proving difficult.
I did see some posts by another creator/group of a different VN in a thread about theirs, so perhaps there’s some option to manage what happened there. I would hope so, so you could feel better about the situation and maybe stop stuff from happening you don’t want happening.
And to be clear, I see no reason to use that site except in very unique circumstances like I described, everything is 99% here on itch. And you’re offering this for free which is extremely generous, it’s why I want to support as much as I can. Sadly, I’ve been trying to move to another country and saving as much as I can, otherwise I’d keep patreon on quite a few projects. As it is, I pay for updates and subscribe longer when I can. Due to the geopolitical situation, my move may be impossible anyway, in which case I may have more funds available… silver lining? :\
I hope the site will allow you to solve the issue. I have a feeling something will work out. <3