# GTA VI Leaks Turned Into Malware Traps by Cybercriminals

Fake files expose gamers to malicious software.

- **Source:** [Security Affairs](https://brifing.si/source/e6c4f5ec-3e1b-4152-a932-056243bd56eb)
- **Published:** 2026-08-24
- **Original article:** <https://securityaffairs.com/197772/malware/cybercriminals-turn-gta-vi-leaks-into-malware-bait.html>
- **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/52fbe22b-c290-4a75-a79c-9d61ce67d654

## Fake GTA VI Files Contain Malware

A fake 113GB GTA VI file, largely filled with empty data, contained malicious software. A user on X was invited to test this file, and the results were as bad as expected. The file contained only a 50 KB virus, with the rest being completely empty.

## Malware Code Analyzed

Researchers analyzing the malware's code found commands to disable Windows Defender and shut down other security software. This was a deliberate step to prepare the system for further attacks. Users who ran the file effectively disabled their antivirus.

## Real and Fake Content Mixed

A leaker named CyberLeek released real game footage in protest of Rockstar's digital pre-order plans. These real leaks made fake downloads believable. Users searching for real content were exposed to fake files. This confusion posed a significant threat to user security.

## Fake Websites and Apps

Researchers found fake GTA VI websites and mobile apps. These sites used DLL side-loading to run malicious software. The fake 'GTA 6 Mobile' app redirected users to info-stealers and ransomware. Fake Rockstar Social Club login pages attempted to steal user credentials.

## Gaming Communities Targeted

Kaspersky documented over 19 million attempted malware downloads disguised as popular games in a single year. Games like GTA, Minecraft, and Call of Duty, with large fan bases, became prime targets for cybercriminals. These large communities make it easier to spread fake content.

## Official Release Date for GTA VI

GTA VI's official release date is set for November 19, 2026, launching first on consoles. The PC version will follow later. There is currently no playable version in circulation. Files appearing on torrent sites are merely traps set by cybercriminals.

## What Users Should Watch Out For

Users should be cautious of large files appearing on torrent sites. If a file seems too good to be true, it probably is. If a leak of a major game like GTA VI appears months before the official release date, it's not a leak—it's a trap.

## Cybersecurity Warnings

Cybersecurity experts warn gamers against fake files. Fake content mixed with real content seriously threatens user security. To protect against such attacks, downloading from trusted sources and keeping antivirus software updated is crucial.

## Sources covering this story

- https://securityaffairs.com/197772/malware/cybercriminals-turn-gta-vi-leaks-into-malware-bait.html — 

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_Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._