GTA 6 codes reportedly being stolen from boxed copies without being opened

Boxed retail copies of Grand Theft Auto VI are allegedly having their digital codes stolen due to a major flaw in the manufacturing.

As reported by Push Square, a manufacturing oversight has resulted in some buyers claiming that their digital code to redeem Grand Theft Auto VI has already been used upon opening the box.

Some people claim that by pointing a strong torch or flashlight at the side of the case results in the printed code being visible, even with the shrink wrap still on the box.

While digital codes inside physical boxes are usually printed either in the manual, on a separate piece of paper, or on a disc itself (even if that disc doesn't have data on it), Rockstar has opted to print the digital code on the actual cover insert which has resulted in people being able to see the codes.

It seems like this is occurring with PS5 copies of Grand Theft Auto VI, and we haven't been able to confirm whether this is also being seen with Xbox Series X/S copies.

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Are boxed copies of GTA 6 really having their codes stolen?

There seems to be some debate over whether this method actually works. Some claim they can't see anything in a sealed copy, while others claim the poster included inside the boxed edition blocks the code. However, others claim that shining a light to the side of the box allows the code to be readable.

Another user claims that in the U.S. at least, this can't be done as the code on the insert has a camouflaged pattern around the code, meaning the code can't be read from the outside even if a light is shone inside the box. However, as others have noted, some European copies do not feature this pattern.

"I'm trying to think of an object that could fit in that circle and potentially block this from happening but I'm drawing a blank," reads a top comment on Reddit, poking fun at the fact that this wouldn't have happened if a disc was present inside the box.

It seems for now, it still remains unconfirmed whether codes from boxed copies of Grand Theft Auto VI are actually being stolen. It seems like there are few people complaining about their GTA VI codes not working, so it's possible this may have only been a small defect with some European copies.

Until Rockstar or Sony releases a statement, take this with a massive grain of salt. We'll likely know more in the next few days leading up the game's release on November 19.

However, be sure to also take caution when purchasing a boxed copy of the game, as most retailers have an "all sales are final" policy when it comes to digital games. If you're in doubt whether purchasing a boxed copy is safe for you or not, it might be better to pick up the game on the PlayStation Store or Xbox Store.

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