Urgent warning to gamers over FAKE Grand Theft Auto 6 download links that can flood your device with malware – here’s how to spot them

After years of anticipation, the Grand Theft Auto 6 trailer finally appeared online yesterday.

Millions of eager gamers flocked to watch the trailer, which quickly set the record for the most views on YouTube in 24 hours after racking up nearly 100 million views.

Now, it appears that cybercriminals have jumped on the bandwagon, targeting unsuspecting gamers with fake download links.

Worryingly, clicking on these links can flood your device with malware capable of tracking you or stealing your personal data.

Here's everything you need to know – including how to spot fake download links.

Cybercriminals have jumped on the bandwagon, targeting unsuspecting gamers with fake download links (stock image)

“GTA VI” will be released in 2025 and is set in the fictional Vice City – reminiscent of the city of Miami last seen in the 2006 installment of the hit series.

It is too It appears to feature the series' first playable female character.

With physical sales of PC and console games declining rapidly, digital downloads now dominate the market.

The experts at NordVPN warn that bad actors are trying to lure fans with fake download links, promising a “free,” “leaked,” or “beta” version of the game, before its release in 2025.

According to Marigus Bridis, CTO at NordVPN, similar attempts have been identified around the release of other popular games like Hogwarts Legacy or The Last of Us.

“The gaming community has been waiting for Grand Theft Auto 6 for a decade, so it's only natural that fans will try to get at least a demo as soon as possible,” Mr Briedis said.

“Unfortunately, curiosity and impatience open up new opportunities for cybercriminals.

“Although GTA 6 is still under development, and the creators promise to release it in 2025, the Internet is full of links promising the possibility of downloading the game.”

Worryingly, once you click on these links, your device can be infected with some form of malware within seconds.

“Typically, these types of malware can be used to track you or steal your personal data, banking credentials or identity,” Mr. Bridis said.

“These malicious files can hide on your computer for a long time and do their work without apparent harm.”

To protect yourself from fake GTA 6 scams, experts advise avoiding links that promise free or early versions of the game before the official release.

“Download games only from official sites, and use software like Threat Protection,” they added.