A fake video claiming to reveal leaked footage from the highly anticipated game Grand Theft Auto VI has sparked outrage among gamers and reignited concerns about AI-generated content. The video, which depicted the character Lucia traversing a fictionalized version of Florida, was swiftly removed after accumulating over eight million views within a day.
The individual responsible for the video, operating under the username Zap Actu GTA6, clarified to IGN that the intention behind the video was to gauge public reactions and showcase how seamlessly reality and AI-generated content can be intertwined in 2025. Despite claiming it was meant for entertainment purposes, Zap Actu GTA6 faced backlash from the gaming community, with many expressing disappointment and calling for account suspension.
In response to the backlash, Zap Actu GTA6 issued an apology, committing to sharing only verified news about GTA6 and distinguishing speculative content moving forward. They also asserted that they had not monetized the video views. Rockstar Games, the publisher of the Grand Theft Auto series, has released limited promotional material for GTA VI, with the game’s release date postponed to November 19, 2026.
The prevalence of fake videos and screenshots purporting to be from GTA VI remains a challenge, with some creators exploiting these hoaxes for financial gain. Rockstar Games typically refrains from addressing such rumors, as they are inundated with daily speculations about GTA VI. However, the company did acknowledge a previous leak in 2022, attributing it to unauthorized network access.
Notably, advancements in AI technology have facilitated the creation and dissemination of fake content, as demonstrated by instances where individuals manipulated Google’s algorithms to propagate false claims about GTA VI. These incidents underscore the evolving landscape of misinformation and the need for vigilance in discerning authentic information from fabricated content.