In most of the cell‐based studies, IFITM genes behave as oncogenes, and their deficiency impaired cell growth and invasion[26, 29] However, in an IFITM3 knockout model induced by AOM/DSS, its deletion led to enhanced colitis and enlarged tumor number and size, suggesting it is a tumor suppressor.[27] Then it is possible that IFITM family genes play opposite roles in different types of CRC. Here, IFITM3 is linked to infectious otitis media.