One of the most anticipated game launches in years is back in the headlines, with pre-order details and cover art now out in the open. Predictably, the excitement has brought a wave of scams along with it, and UK shoppers are very much in the firing line.
The pattern is familiar. Fraudsters set up convincing-looking storefronts, social posts and even fake 'build your own city' offers that promise early access, exclusive content or a discounted copy if you pay now. Some harvest card details, others take your money for a product that does not exist yet. When a launch is this big, the noise makes it easy to click before you think.
The safe route is boring on purpose. Buy only from the official platform stores and well-known retailers you already use. A genuine pre-order will go through PlayStation, Xbox, a recognised PC storefront or a major high-street and online retailer, not a link in a comment thread or a direct message promising a deal too good to be true.
A few quick checks save a lot of grief. Be suspicious of any site asking for payment by bank transfer, gift cards or crypto. Look for the padlock and the correct web address rather than a near-miss spelling. And remember that no legitimate seller needs your full account password to take a pre-order.
If you do want the game, there is no rush to use a sketchy shortcut. Set a price alert, pre-order through a trusted store when you are ready, and pay by card so you keep the protection that comes with it. The launch will still be there. The scammers are counting on you not waiting.