Newshot Users report a flaw in the GTA 6 physical box: strong light can directly see through to the download code, allowing redemption without opening the package
IT Home, November 14 — Some users have found that certain physical boxed versions of Grand Theft Auto 6 (GTA 6) carry a risk of redemption code exposure: even without opening the packaging, it is possible to shine a strong flashlight from the side of the package and directly see the download code printed inside the box.
According to a report by Engadget today, these redemption codes are not printed on separate paper cards, nor are they protected by the common scratch-off coating; instead, they are printed directly on the inside cover of the game box.
Photos have already appeared on the ResetEra forum and X showing that after users shine strong light at an angle from the side of the game box, the redemption code can be seen through the packaging.
The number of photos currently circulating is small, and it is not yet possible to determine whether the issue is widespread. Someone on ResetEra pointed out that the problem may mainly affect some international versions; at least the US version's box uses an additional blocking design that can prevent the redemption code from being directly seen from the outside.
If the redemption code can indeed be read by others without opening the package, a situation could arise where consumers buy an unopened game box only to find that the redemption code has already been redeemed in advance. Because digital game licenses differ from traditional physical discs, once a redemption code has been used, subsequent buyers may be unable to obtain the game normally.
However, the related risk still needs further verification. Game media outlet GamesRadar+ actually tested US and UK packaging and found that neither version allowed the redemption code to be read with a flashlight. The outlet also pointed out that some international versions with the PEGI rating label may not have the anti-peeping blocking pattern used on the US version, and therefore carry a higher exposure risk.
Engadget has contacted Take-Two about the matter, asking whether the company is aware of the issue and whether it will take measures. As of the publication of the outlet's report, no official response had been received.
Related articles
- Take-Two CEO: Physical games will not disappear, but in the future they will be as niche as vinyl records
- Six days before release, Rockstar pushed the first official GTA 6 update of about 1GB
- Ahead of GTA 6's release: Palworld developer Pocketpair arranged a 5-day "special holiday" for all employees
- Rockstar responds to whether future Grand Theft Auto games will be set only in the US: nothing is absolute
- Rockstar launches a new round of GTA6 marketing, quietly opening a new account and releasing footage of Vice City beach roads
- Report: Take-Two reportedly launches copyright crackdown on fan-made GTA 6 game map project