Fake 'GTA V' Beta Version Download Causes Malware for Users, Rockstar Reacts

A link for the beta version of the upcoming game GTA V (Grand Theft Auto 5) has appeared on the Internet, but it looks like this is just 19 GB of malware.

Some reports claim that the creators of the game have already released the downloadable file. This has prompted a number of gamers to immediately download the file via Steam. There were even photos released showing gamers already playing the beta. Unfortunately, this was just a scam.

The game developer, Rockstar Games, has not released any official statement about the launch of the alleged beta version, but this did not stop the gamers from downloading the malware.

After the discovery, multiple sites reported and warned users about the virus.

There was a thread created in Reddit to warn other users as well. The post reads: "[OFFICIAL WARNING] Grand Theft Auto V Beta Scam: IGNORE THE FAKE BETA RELEASE AND DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL ALPHA HERE! LIMITED TO THE FIRST HUNDRED REGISTERED PARTICIPANTS ONLY! PLEASE DISABLE YOUR ANTIVIRUS, WE HAVE A BUG THAT DOESN'T LET YOU PLAY WITH IT TURNED ON. THIS WILL BE FIXED SHORTLY"

A few hours later, Rockstar Games released an official statement clarifying their stance on the file. They even published an entire page dedicated to warn users of the spam.

"Please note: There is no pre-release 'BETA' test for Grand Theft Auto 5. If you see ads or solicitations to join a beta program, beware as this is likely some type of online phishing scam," the message read.