The Stop Killing Games movement publicly criticized the Cyberleek group, which was identified as responsible for the recent leaks of Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA 6). Furthermore, the movement warned players not to make payments to individuals involved in the leaks.
According to Stop Killing Games, although some of the demands raised by Cyberleek share similarities with the agendas defended by the movement itself, the use of illicit methods and the promotion of a cryptocurrency make the initiative incompatible with the principles of Stop Killing Games.
This statement was released by Moritz Katzner, CEO of Stop Killing Games, shortly after the release of videos and materials related to GTA 6. In a communication posted on the Reddit platform, Katzner was emphatic in requesting that fans refrain from any form of financial support to the group.
Katzner stated: 'Do not send money to these people, no matter how much sympathy you may feel for their actions.' The representative of Stop Killing Games emphasized that such leaks constitute illegal acts and cause significant damage, especially to professionals directly involved in the game's development process.
Additionally, Katzner pointed out that this incident occurred just over a week before the official extended presentation of GTA 6, scheduled by Rockstar. The leaked videos contained references and QR codes directing both to the Cyberleek website and to a cryptocurrency promoted by the group.
Information indicates that Cyberleek claims the funds raised from the currency would be used to finance a 'secret project.' The group also released a manifesto containing various demands directed at Rockstar Games and other publishers. Among these demands is the defense of an offline operation mode for single-player games, aiming to ensure consumers maintain access to content even if servers are deactivated.
Although this request aligns with certain banners defended by Stop Killing Games, the entity vehemently rejected the methodology employed by Cyberleek to exert pressure on corporations. Katzner argued that resorting to leaks does not contribute to safeguarding consumer rights. He stated: 'Using illegal means to defend a point is unacceptable to us and does nothing to protect our right to continue using what we paid for.'
The representative also made it clear that decisions made by the senior management of large companies should not be equated with the work performed by development teams. According to him, thousands of professionals dedicated themselves to GTA 6 and are directly affected when internal materials are exposed without permission.
In response to community questions about why the movement got involved in the leak discussion, Katzner replied that it is crucial to distinguish between the tactics of Stop Killing Games and the actions of Cyberleek. The concern lies in the risk that politicians and other authorities with whom the initiative seeks dialogue might mistakenly associate the hackers' practices with the community advocating for legislative changes and greater protection for video game consumers.
Stop Killing Games focuses on promoting change through legal and political channels, particularly regarding game preservation and the right to use purchased products even after server services cease. Thus, the group seeks to distance itself from Cyberleek, despite existing coincidences among some demands.
