Power Up Gaming founder Chris Mawson appeared on CBS Miami this past weekend to discuss how scammers are exploiting anticipation for GTA 6’s November 19 release. He warned viewers about fake early-access offers, malware-laced downloads and cryptocurrency demands.
Fake early-access offers exploit players’ anticipation
Rockstar has not announced a public beta or early access for Grand Theft Auto 6. Mawson warned that links, messages and social media ads promising a chance to play early should be treated with suspicion.
“When the user installs [a purported game launcher], unfortunately, it turns out to be malware or a virus,” Mawson told CBS Miami.
He said these offers rely on players’ eagerness to experience the game as quickly as possible. “We all experience the fear of missing out,” he said, describing why claims of exclusive access can be tempting.
Scam sites may use polished graphics and Vice City-inspired designs to look convincing. But a supposed demo or early build could instead be designed to steal passwords, browser cookies and other personal information.
Crypto offers can put money and wallets at risk
Some sites claim to offer GTA 6 builds in exchange for large cryptocurrency payments. Others ask users to connect a wallet to unlock “VIP digital access” or exclusive content.
Mawson warned that these offers can be a route to stealing money or gaining permission to transfer crypto and other digital assets. Cryptocurrency payments are difficult to reverse, so players should avoid paying for unofficial access or connecting a wallet to an unverified site.
PC and mobile players may be targeted
GTA 6’s initial release is planned for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S. Players looking for a PC or mobile version may be more vulnerable to offers that exploit their fear of missing out.
Downloads labelled “GTA 6 PC Build” or “GTA 6 Mobile Beta” should be treated as fake. There is no legitimate public build available outside Rockstar’s own systems.
Fake installers and login pages pose further risks
Fraudulent installers may be presented as unofficial “repack” versions of the game, but can instead install Trojans, ransomware or password stealers. Some malicious installers use techniques such as DLL sideloading to run harmful code on a computer. Mawson’s advice is to avoid unofficial downloads and never run an installer from an unverified source.
Scammers may also create fake Rockstar Social Club login pages to steal account details. Be cautious of any link asking you to sign in to unlock GTA 6 content. Check the web address carefully and visit Rockstar’s site directly rather than following an unfamiliar link.
Mawson advised players to rely on Rockstar’s official channels and legitimate platform stores, and to be wary of social media giveaways promising early access.
Watch the full CBS Miami segment.
