Fake 113GB Grand Theft Auto VI Torrent Disguises Malware Behind Empty Data

Cybercriminals are exploiting consumer demand for upcoming video games by distributing a malicious file disguised as an unreleased build of Grand Theft Auto VI across peer-to-peer torrent networks, as first reported by TechRadar Pro. The fraudulent file is packaged as a massive 113-gigabyte ISO disk image, a size crafted to mirror the heavy storage requirements typical of modern high-budget video game releases and deceive prospective downloaders into believing it is a legitimate leak.

Despite its significant file footprint, independent technical analysis conducted by online digital security researchers revealed that the contents of the download are almost entirely devoid of genuine game assets, binary code, or media files. Analysts who examined the structure of the ISO reported that approximately 99.99% of the 113GB torrent consists of padded empty zeroes. The functional component of the entire download is restricted to roughly 50 kilobytes of code, which researchers identified as active malware.

"I did some reverse engineering and confirmed that it is fully fake and full of viruses," stated an online cybersecurity researcher operating under the handle @Aidas29506493 in a post shared on X. Security analysts noted that inflating file sizes with empty data is a tactical maneuver designed to circumvent casual scrutiny and disguise small malicious payloads. Researchers warned that such padded files can be used to deliver severe threats, including ransomware programs that lock infected computer systems.

Technical breakdowns of the 50KB payload revealed specific routines crafted to bypass standard Windows security mechanisms and weaken host defenses. Researchers discovered a PowerShell command embedded in the file that automatically attempts to add the main system drive to the Windows Defender exclusion list, preventing Microsoft's default antivirus software from scanning critical directories. The malware also includes additional instructions aimed at forcibly terminating active antimalware processes to ensure uninhibited operation after execution.

The circulating torrent underscores broader risks associated with unreleased software leaks compared to standard pirated files available on public distribution channels. Because leaked pre-release builds lack established community validation, users who run unauthorized executables expose their devices to severe security breaches. Security analysts warned that infected machines could suffer from compromised user accounts, stolen browser storage data, harvested credentials, and compromised personal documents if malicious code gains elevated access.

The deployment of the fake ISO file follows a surge of online speculation fueled by recent unauthorized leak claims targeting video game publisher Take-Two Interactive and developer Rockstar Games. An anonymous leaker operating under the alias Cyberleek recently published alleged gameplay clips alongside map details depicting the fictional location of Leonidas, while issuing demands to Rockstar. In response to unauthorized disclosures, Take-Two has taken legal measures, requesting user identification details from Microsoft related to individuals active across three Discord channels linked to leaked material.

Rockstar Games has scheduled the official commercial release of Grand Theft Auto VI for November, offering players an authentic release path. Cybersecurity experts emphasize that until the title's official debut, all claimed leaks and unverified ISO downloads circulating on file-sharing networks should be treated with high skepticism, as they frequently serve as delivery mechanisms for dangerous security exploits.