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Fake Grand Theft Auto VI demo sites steal gamers’ passwords and sessions

Cybercriminals are impersonating Rockstar Games with fraudulent websites promising a GTA VI demo, luring desperate fans into downloading information-stealing malware.

Security researchers at Malwarebytes have flagged a new wave of fake websites that impersonate Rockstar Games, the developer behind Grand Theft Auto VI. The sites promote a playable demo for the long-awaited title, but no such demo exists. Instead, clicking the “Play Now” button downloads a file disguised as a game installer that is actually malware.

The malware is designed to steal sensitive data from web browsers, including passwords, cookies, and logged-in sessions. In some cases, attackers can use the stolen credentials to hijack accounts even when multi-factor authentication is enabled, according to the researchers.

The scam preys on the intense anticipation surrounding GTA VI, which remains unreleased more than a decade after GTA 5 became one of the best-selling games of all time. Multiple delays have left many fans hungry for any update, making them easy targets for fraudulent offers.

With the game now expected to launch on November 19, 2026, the attack comes as excitement builds. Meanwhile, Netflix is set to air an extended look at the game on Thursday, potentially giving fans a legitimate preview—and a chance to verify what is real versus what is a trap.