Even with Grand Theft Auto 6 months away from its console launch and preorders not yet available, scam websites are already attempting to capitalize on player excitement. Cybersecurity company Malwarebytes has issued a warning, identifying a new wave of fraudulent sites that promise "VIP early access" to the game for hundreds of dollars, payable in cryptocurrency.
These scam operations exploit the immense anticipation for Grand Theft Auto 6, the latest installment in a franchise with hundreds of millions of copies sold and a 13-year gap since its predecessor. Stefan Dasic of Malwarebytes described the game as "the perfect bait" for such scams, noting that scammers prey on the enormous hype surrounding the title. One particularly audacious scam site even attempts to combine Grand Theft Auto 6, Mr. Beast, and Lego in its deceptive lures.
Victims who fall for these schemes face a significant risk, as payments are typically demanded in cryptocurrency. This method makes it nearly impossible to recover lost funds or report the fraud. The money is sent, and there is no recourse for the deceived.
While the schemes may seem obvious, the report highlights that desire and urgency can override caution. Scam websites often employ sophisticated tactics and convincing language to encourage impulsive decisions. The common practice of offering "advance access" for more expensive editions of games further blurs the line for potential victims.
Malwarebytes has not disclosed the exact number of visitors to these scam sites, but the persistence of such operations underscores their effectiveness. Dasic commented that scams succeed because "there will always be at least one person that will fall for this—either being too young, or too immature, probably not well informed and just wanting to be the first to have their hands on something before everyone else."
Players eager for Grand Theft Auto 6 should remain vigilant. There is currently no legitimate early access to the game. Any official announcements regarding premium editions or advance play should only be pursued through Rockstar Games' official channels. Furthermore, any website demanding payment in cryptocurrency for early access should be treated as a red flag, prompting immediate withdrawal.
Grand Theft Auto 6 is scheduled to release on November 19 for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S. Official preorders are set to begin on June 25. A PC release date has not yet been announced.