Scammers Exploit PC Gamers' Desire for GTA 6, Dangling the 'One Thing' They Can't Have Yet

Scams and malware related to GTA 6 are on the rise, targeting PC and Android users as Rockstar Games skips these platforms for the initial launch. NordVPN reports that the excitement surrounding GTA 6, which opens pre-orders this week, has created a prime opportunity for scammers to target fans who will miss out when the game launches exclusively on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S in November.

"The title will initially launch on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, with the PC version expected later — and that gap is exactly what scammers are weaponizing," NordVPN stated in a blog post. The scammers are "dangling the one thing those users won't get anytime soon: GTA 6."

NordVPN has detected fake GTA 6 beta keys and subscription traps. To appear legitimate, scammers ask targets to fill out a short form or complete a fake "Are you a bot?" verification step. Users should also be wary of Android adware disguised as a GTA 6 beta. These fake apps lead to websites hosting infostealers, banking trojans, adware, and ransomware. Additionally, trojanized GTA 6 repacks exist, where threat actors clone popular piracy and repack sites to distribute Windows malware disguised as game files.

"Scammers play on curiosity and fear of missing out (FOMO), so avoid any GTA 6-related offers, links, and messages that awaken such emotions," NordVPN advised. "Using link checkers to test suspicious links can also help avoid getting scammed."

Of course, there is no official GTA 6 beta, subscription plan, or PC or mobile version yet. So it's best to ignore anything promising these. A PC version of GTA 6 is expected from Rockstar eventually, but the release date remains unknown. It's one of the seven burning questions we hope will be answered when pre-orders launch on June 25, along with the game's price.

The lack of a PC version at launch is a major talking point. Take-Two boss Strauss Zelnick has given vague responses when asked about the console-only launch, citing Rockstar's history of eventual PC releases. Clearly, PC gamers' huge appetite for GTA 6 makes them a target for malware and scams.

While waiting for answers, check out IGN's analysis of the GTA 6 cover art, our report on the fresh look at Vice City, and how fans are finally accepting that GTA 6 won't be delayed again.