Cypress Cove Nudist Resort in Florida has said it is being held to "internet ransom" after it was flooded with dozens of fake reviews from supposed GTA 6 fans, who demanded payment to remove them.
Fake reviews linked to GTA 6 leaks
The reviews reportedly began after Rockstar Games gave an extended look at GTA 6 on streaming service Netflix, offering fans their biggest view of the game after more than a decade in development. The fake posts target the resort because alleged GTA 6 leaks suggest a similar location will appear in the game.
The comments range from simply writing the name of the main character Jason to references to a mysterious incident in August, when the extended look was released. Other fake reviews mention firearms and binoculars, without making it clear they are fake, causing a headache for the resort's marketing team.
Resort refuses to pay
The resort has reportedly struggled to get the reviews taken down and has actively commented on each fake with a lengthy statement to explain the situation to potential guests, according to Dexerto.
Cypress Cove Nudist Resort wrote: "SPAM / EXTORTION REVIEW. THIS IS NOT A LEGITIMATE GUEST REVIEW. For anyone wondering about the suddenly recurring references to 'Jason Duval,' 'Lucia,' binoculars, a pool, firearms, and other suspiciously similar details — those are references to Grand Theft Auto VI. Yes. A video game.
"These reviews appear to be part of a coordinated series of fabricated posts using GTA VI references and attaching them to our actual business. They were then followed by a request that we PAY MONEY to have the reviews changed or removed.
"We will not pay. We will not negotiate. We have documented the reviews and the request for payment. This activity is being reported through the appropriate channels. For our actual guests and anyone researching Cypress Cove: please understand that these posts do not describe genuine guest experiences at our resort.
"And to whoever is behind them: We appreciate the commitment to the GTA storyline, but Cypress Cove is located in Florida — not Leonida. Unfortunately, our marketing budget also does not contain a line item for 'internet ransom'. NO PAYMENT. NO NEGOTIATION. FALSE REVIEW REPORTED."
Remaining reviews and release date
At the time of writing, a few fake GTA 6 related reviews were still visible on the resort's Google review page. GTA 6 is scheduled to release on November 19.
