The individual responsible for a significant Grand Theft Auto VI data breach has reportedly threatened to release a playable build of the game, featuring the entire story mode from beginning to end, as part of a cryptocurrency-based scheme. This latest development comes from online reports circulating on the Cyberleek website.
The leaker, operating under the name Cyberleek, allegedly updated their website with a demand: if their associated memecoin reaches a market capitalization of $30 million, a build of GTA 6 will be released, complete with credits. Cyberleek has framed these leaks as a protest against the lack of a physical disc version for the game and has called on Take-Two Interactive to release GTA 6 on physical media and issue a public apology.
As of this report, Cyberleek's memecoin had a market cap of $3.8 million, peaking at $5.7 million earlier in the day following the emergence of these messages. Reaching the $30 million target appears unlikely.
Cyberleek also outlined other market cap goals tied to the appearance of the character Lucia. For instance, a $2 million market cap was associated with a threat to release gameplay showing Lucia in a bikini, while a $4 million cap would reportedly lead to gameplay featuring Lucia unclothed. These stipulations have drawn significant criticism, with many accusing Cyberleek of running a cryptocurrency scam and advising against investing in the memecoin.
Following a series of high-profile GTA 6 leaks in August, which prompted an investigation by Rockstar's parent company Take-Two, Cyberleek had reportedly gone silent. The investigation involved subpoenas issued to platforms like Discord in an effort to identify the responsible party. However, Cyberleek resurfaced recently with a 24-minute gameplay video showcasing cutscenes, narrative elements, and the playable characters Jason and Lucia. This new video also included instances of full-frontal nudity for Jason and confirmed a first-person camera perspective.
The origin of this leaked gameplay footage remains unclear, given Rockstar's notoriously strict security measures. These recent events suggest that Cyberleek is still at large and defiant despite potential legal repercussions.
Rockstar Games previously addressed the GTA 6 leaks in August, describing the situation as "heartbreaking" for the development team and "unfortunate" for players. The developer acknowledged that the intended player experience might be affected by spoilers but reaffirmed the game's planned release date of November 19.
Analysis of cryptocurrency transactions from late August indicated that the GTA 6 leaker may have "cashed out," reportedly earning approximately $270,000. Each video posted by Cyberleek has directed fans to a website where they could use the leaker's cryptocurrency to vote on further leaks. A poll is reportedly active on Cyberleek's website, suggesting more leaks may be imminent.
The success of Take-Two's legal team and authorities in uncovering the identities of those responsible may hinge on their ability to compel social networks or crypto exchanges to disclose any personal information they possess on the individuals involved.