Cybercriminals are exploiting the hype for Grand Theft Auto VI by creating sophisticated fake websites that use authentic game logos to offer fraudulent "VIP Early Access." The scam involves victims paying approximately $250 in cryptocurrency for a download that delivers no game but instead infects systems with information-stealers, banking malware, adware, or ransomware, primarily targeting PC and Android users. Rockstar Games has confirmed no public beta exists, and users should be wary of any offers to sell the game before its official release.
Malware Grand Theft Auto VI hype fuels new wave of scams targeting gamers June 26, 2026 Share By SC Staff According to HackRead, cybercriminals are exploiting the immense anticipation for Grand Theft Auto VI to perpetrate scams and infect computers with malware. Fans have been eagerly awaiting the sequel for over a decade, a gap that has heightened their desperation for any news or early access. Security firms Malwarebytes and NordVPN have identified a surge of sophisticated fake websites offering "VIP Early Access" to Grand Theft Auto VI. These sites employ authentic game logos and artwork to deceive users. The scam involves users paying approximately $250 in cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, or USDT, for a supposed early download. Once the payment is made and the transaction ID submitted, the funds are lost as cryptocurrency transactions are irreversible. Victims receive no game, only malware, including information-stealing trojans, banking malware, adware, or ransomware. The scam is particularly targeting PC and Android users, as official release dates for these platforms have not yet been announced, unlike the console release scheduled for November 19. Rockstar Games has confirmed no public beta program exists for the game, urging gamers to be wary of any offers claiming to sell the game before its official release. Source: HackRead SC Staff Related Malware New ‘Edgecution’ malware uses browser extension to deploy ransomware SC Staff June 25, 2026 The Edgecution malware exploits the Chrome Native Messaging protocol to enable communication between browser extensions and native desktop applications. Malware StealC infrastructure takedown assisted by AI analysis, C2 infiltration Laura French June 25, 2026 Microsoft, Proofpoint, IBM, Europol and other partners took aim the StealC and Amadey “assembly line.” Ransomware Attackers drop DragonForce ransomware leveraging MS Teams relay systems Steve Zurier June 17, 2026 DragonForce ransomware abused Microsoft Teams relay infrastructure to hide C2 traffic. Get daily email updates SC Media's daily must-read of the most current and pressing daily news Business Email By clicking the Subscribe button below, you agree to SC Media Terms of Use and Privacy Policy . Subscribe Related Terms Adware You can skip this ad in 5 seconds