GTA 6 leaks prompt Take-Two subpoena
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Take-Two subpoenaed Microsoft and Discord for user data to identify GTA 6 leakers. The hunt follows daily gameplay leaks that may cost $2.8 billion in market value.
Background
Grand Theft Auto VI is one of the most anticipated games, with a full launch planned for November 19, 2026. In August 2026, a hacker or leaker using the handle Cyberleek released gameplay footage and the map, allegedly to protest Rockstar's digital-only release and pre-order practices. The leaks spread across social media, prompting Take-Two to take legal action to identify the culprits.
How it unfolded
- Aug 19, 2026Hacker Cyberleek leaks GTA VI gameplay and map to protest digital-only release, claiming pre-orders are a legacy of physical releases.
- Aug 20, 2026Take-Two files petitions with US District Court in Southern District of New York to subpoena Microsoft and Discord for identifying information of suspected leakers.
- Aug 21, 2026Forbes reports on the subpoenas, noting they seek account IDs, emails, IP addresses, phone numbers, and linked accounts from a OneDrive account.
- Aug 22, 2026Tom's Hardware and IBTimes detail the subpoena requests, including Windows device IDs for users in three Discord servers and data from a GitHub repo.
- Aug 24, 2026CNET reports that both filings request information be produced by Sept. 4, and Discord says it will comply with valid subpoenas.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- Take-Two states the subpoenas are to obtain identity of alleged infringers and protect its rights, per sworn declaration.
- Analysts
- PC Gamer estimated Take-Two's market cap fell by roughly $2.8 billion during the week of leaks, indicating significant financial impact.
- Public
- Some fans who joined leak-focused Discord communities may find the breadth of the request unsettling, though appearing in records doesn't prove participation.
Still unverified
The identity of the leaker (Cyberleek) and the legitimacy of the leaked footage are not confirmed; Take-Two has not publicly commented on the leaks' authenticity.