GTA 6 warning: Pre-order scams are stealing users' info and spreading malware — how to stay safe

The official Grand Theft Auto 6 launch isn't for several months, but pre-orders have been in full swing since the end of June. You may want to be careful if you try to order the game, though.

Security researchers from Kaspersky recently released a warning via email to Tom's Guide that cybercriminals are using the hype around GTA 6 to deploy a "wide range of fraud schemes." The most common scheme appears to be fake pre-order websites or false video tutorials on how to get the game.

"Highly anticipated game releases have long presented significant opportunities for cybercriminals, and we are already detecting related fraudulent activity," Olga Altukhova, a Senior Web Content Analyst at Kaspersky, said in the report. "These schemes are carefully timed to capitalize on heightened consumer excitement: attackers understand that periods of intense anticipation can lower users’ guard and create a false sense of urgency."

The fake sites utilize graphics and copy that mimic Rockstar's branding, including real trailers and promotional artwork. They offer gamers the ability to pre-order the game for the PS5 or Xbox.

Unfortunately, when users enter their personal details and payment information, it sets them up to potentially have their bank accounts drained and sensitive data compromised.

According to Kaspersky, the false pages have been found in multiple languages, which indicates that scammers are targeting unsuspecting people across the globe.

Other frauds to avoid

Fake websites aren't the only scam. At least one website was offering what it claimed to be a beta version of the game as a download framing it as a leak.

The false beta was promoted on social media and streaming platforms where scammers showed gamers how to "safely" download the game. Downloading and opening the file enabled malware to be installed on your system which could lead to compromised data and unauthorized access.

Finally, cryptocurrency owners are also being targeted via suspicious websites promoting tokens using GTA 6 branding.

How to safely pre-order and avoid scammers

As always, when it comes to software, whether games or programs, we always recommend you purchase or download from official sources.

GTA 6 is only launching on PS5 and Xbox Series S and X this November. If you're interested, purchase the game through the storefronts on your console of choice. Or you can go to the official Rockstar GTA 6 site and pre-order there.

Kaspersky recommends using a prepaid card when purchasing games to avoid exposing your credit card or bank account information. It's an extra step but good practice for keeping your financial information safe.

Even beyond of GTA 6, you should always double-check the URL formats of websites you're visiting, especially ones you're not familiar with. Also check the spelling of names and organizations where typos can reveal falsehoods.

Online scams often end up with nasty malware infections, so you want to keep your devices protected as well. Make sure that you're using the best antivirus software on your Windows PC, the best Mac antivirus software on your Apple computer, and one of the best Android antivirus apps on your Android smartphone

For even greater protection and help recovering any funds lost to scams, you may also want to consider signing up for one of the best identity theft protection services.

Finally, consider enabling multi-factor authentication and monitoring accounts regularly, which can help warn you about unauthorized access.

More from Tom's Guide

• 3 cloud gaming services I recommend if gaming platforms are too expensive
• Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynced is a remake done right — and the best pirate game I’ve ever played
• I grinded enough Microsoft reward points to get GTA 6 for free — here's how you can do it too