Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA VI) is not scheduled for release on consoles until November 19, 2026, but researchers have already discovered a wave of fraudulent websites claiming to offer ‘VIP early access’ or exclusive beta keys. These sites ask victims to hand over money, personal information, or both, often before any real product changes hands.
Malwarebytes and NordVPN have flagged several sites that promise GTA VI access in exchange for cryptocurrency payments, with some asking players to pay a few hundred dollars for a ‘VIP beta key.’
According to researchers, these schemes are the perfect bait for cybercriminals, who can use the information gathered from victims to spread malware or sell their personal data.
Some of these fraudulent sites invoke the phrase ‘help us build Vice City’ to create a false sense of insider access, while others direct players to download software branded as an early build, which contains malware capable of letting fraudsters remotely access the victim’s device.
Researchers have traced some of these fraudulent domains to a wider network with a documented history of spreading banking trojans, infostealers, and ransomware.
In addition to targeting console users, several scam sites also target PC and Android users, despite Rockstar never confirming that those versions exist yet.
The typical victim tends to be someone too young, too eager, or simply underinformed, primarily driven by a desire to be first in line for the game.
However, Malwarebytes’ assessment of the scam wave reveals that the trick itself is rarely sophisticated, yet it consistently fools people regardless of age.
Security researchers are urging anyone tempted by claims of early GTA VI access to pause and verify the source before entering any personal or financial details.
Players who have already entered credentials or payment information are advised to change their passwords immediately and contact their bank without delay, as cryptocurrency payments cannot be reversed once sent.