Rockstar Games' parent company, Take-Two Interactive, has initiated legal action to identify individuals responsible for the recent Grand Theft Auto 6 gameplay leaks. Subpoenas have been issued to Microsoft and Discord as part of an ongoing investigation into how alleged copyrighted material, including extensive gameplay footage, made its way online.
The subpoenas, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, aim to uncover the identity of the leaker, known online as CyberLeek. The documents seek information that could link Discord users to the distribution of Grand Theft Auto 6 content. Specifically, Take-Two is requesting account details such as user IDs, email addresses, IP addresses, phone numbers, and any associated accounts with platforms like Xbox and Google.
The urgency of the legal action is underscored by a deadline set for Microsoft to provide information to Take-Two by September 4. This rapid response from the publisher suggests a strong desire to contain the fallout from the leaks ahead of the game's official extended look, which is scheduled to debut exclusively on Netflix on August 27. The nature of the leaked content, which purportedly includes combat sequences and in-game activities like basketball, along with the leaker's online alias and the mention of cryptocurrency advertising, has fueled speculation about the authenticity and origin of the footage.
One piece of leaked footage reportedly shows the word "LEEK" spelled out in bullet holes on a wall, a detail that further suggests the leaker may have had access to a playable version of the game. The leaks come at a critical juncture, just as Take-Two prepares to reveal more concrete details about Grand Theft Auto 6 after years of anticipation.
Grand Theft Auto 6 is slated for release on November 19 for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. Take-Two Interactive has been contacted for comment regarding the ongoing investigation.