Cybercriminals are exploiting the excitement around GTA 6 with fake demo websites designed to distribute information-stealing malware.
Fans eagerly awaiting Grand Theft Auto 6 (GTA 6) are being warned to avoid websites claiming to offer an early demo or official game download, as cybercriminals are using fake files to distribute information-stealing malware.
The warning comes after Rockstar Games released an extended look at GTA 6, generating renewed interest in the highly anticipated title. According to Malwarebytes, scammers are taking advantage of that excitement by creating websites that imitate Rockstar’s branding and promotional material.
These sites encourage visitors to download a file presented as a playable GTA 6 demo. However, the file is reportedly an infostealer, a type of malware designed to collect sensitive information from an infected computer.
Malwarebytes found that the malicious software can target passwords and login information saved in web browsers. It can also seek browser cookies and authenticated sessions, potentially allowing attackers to gain access to accounts in certain circumstances.
What can the malware steal?
According to Malwarebytes, the malware can search for browser passwords, session cookies, browsing history, download history and saved browser profile information. It can also target autofill data and credentials stored by FTP clients.
The range of information targeted makes fake GTA 6 downloads particularly risky because a single infected device could expose data associated with multiple online accounts.
No official GTA 6 demo has been released
Rockstar Games has not released a playable GTA 6 demo or made an early game version available for public download.
While GTA 6 has been the subject of leaks in the past, those incidents primarily involved screenshots and videos rather than a legitimate playable build.
As a result, websites claiming to provide an official GTA 6 demo should be treated with caution, particularly when they ask users to download unfamiliar files.
How to stay safe
Gamers should only download GTA 6-related files from trusted, official sources and avoid unofficial websites offering supposed early access. A website can easily copy Rockstar’s branding and promotional images, so an official-looking design does not prove its legitimacy.
Users should also avoid entering passwords on suspicious websites and carefully check web addresses before downloading anything.
The size of a file can provide another warning sign. A surprisingly small download advertised as a complete demo of a modern AAA game should be treated with particular suspicion.
Until Rockstar Games officially releases a legitimate playable version, any website offering a GTA 6 demo should be considered potentially dangerous.
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