As anticipation builds for the upcoming Grand Theft Auto VI, cybercriminals are exploiting fans’ eagerness by distributing malware disguised as a game demo.
Fans have been eagerly awaiting the release of Grand Theft Auto VI for more than a decade since the launch of GTA V, the best-selling game of all time, surpassed only by Minecraft. With numerous delays affecting GTA VI and fans desperate for news, hackers have seized this opportunity to target those seeking information about the game.
Fraudulent websites mimicking Rockstar Games, the developer of GTA VI, have emerged, promoting a non-existent playable demo of the game. According to cybersecurity firm Malwarebytes, clicking the “Play Now” button on these sites results in the download of a file that masquerades as a game installer but is actually malware.
This malware functions as an information stealer, designed to capture passwords, cookies, and logged-in sessions stored in web browsers. In some instances, this allows hackers to access accounts even if they are protected by multi-factor authentication.
GTA VI is anticipated to be released on November 19, 2026. In related news, on Thursday, Netflix will present an extended preview of the game, which may clarify the legitimacy of recent leaks.
As always, it is crucial to avoid downloading files from unverified sources.
