A counterfeit video allegedly showcasing leaked content from the upcoming game “Grand Theft Auto VI” has triggered outrage among gamers and reignited concerns about AI-generated material. The video, which has since been removed from X, purported to display protagonist Lucia navigating a fictionalized representation of Florida in the game, as reported by the gaming news outlet IGN. Within less than 24 hours, the video amassed over eight million views.
The individual behind the X account, identified as Zap Actu GTA6, informed IGN that the video was crafted to gauge audience reactions and illustrate how simple it has become in 2025 to blur the boundary between reality and AI-generated content. They clarified that the video was not created with malicious intent but rather as a form of entertainment for the community. Subsequently, Zap Actu GTA6 expressed regret for any confusion caused by the video.
In response to subsequent posts by Zap Actu GTA6, online reactions from gamers expressed disappointment and called for punitive action against the account. Following the backlash, Zap Actu GTA6 conveyed an apology on Thursday, pledging to focus on sharing official and verified news related to GTA6 in the future. They also assured that no advertising revenue was generated from the video views or engagement.
“Grand Theft Auto VI” is the forthcoming installment in the franchise, succeeding the highly successful previous release that has sold over 200 million copies since its launch in 2013. The anticipated game, initially slated for a late 2025 release, has been postponed to November 19, 2026, marking the second significant delay since the unveiling of its first trailer.
Despite the limited promotional material released by Rockstar Games, fake screenshots and videos claiming to reveal new details about the game have flooded online platforms. These misleading contents often lure viewers with promises of new trailers, sometimes disclosed as fan-made or conceptual creations in the fine print.
Wesley Yin-Poole, IGN’s news director, highlighted that creators can exploit the engagement of viral posts for financial gain through product promotions or discussions on platforms like YouTube and Discord. Rockstar Games generally refrains from addressing such rumors and misinformation surrounding their projects, as the frequency of false claims and leaks can be overwhelming.
Moreover, advancements in AI technology not only facilitate the production of deceptive game videos but also enable their rapid dissemination. Instances of individuals tricking AI algorithms into spreading false narratives about “Grand Theft Auto VI,” such as claims of a twerking feature in the game, demonstrate the potential for misinformation to proliferate through digital channels.
