Rumors have sprung up that GTA V Online developer Rockstar Games will start deleting Xbox 360 and PS3 characters. It's not true but past gen console players will have to transfer their characters now.

Last Chance To Transfer

GTA V Online players need to transfer their past gen console characters to current gen consoles or Windows PC. This is due to the developer's recent announcement that it will no longer support such transfer by March 6.

No Deletion

Several news outlets mistakenly thought that Rockstar is deleting Xbox 360 and PS3 GTA Online characters. Industry observers though refuted the rumor. Past gen console owners can still play GTA V Online. Although, they can no longer transfer their characters and progress to current gen consoles once the deadline comes.

Rockstar also mentioned the advantages of transferring to the newer consoles. Players can appreciate the game's graphics and updates in the Xbox One, PS4, and even the Windows PC. GTA V Online has been releasing a lot of new vehicles and features lately.

Reason For Halting Transfer

Critics believed that Rockstar has several reasons for rescinding the transfer privilege given to past gen console owners. They point out that most GTA Online players are using the current gen console or the Windows PC. It no longer makes financial sense to continue offering such option to a dwindling group. There is also the impression that many past gen console owners already have an Xbox One, PS4 or Windows PC. Still, the developer should expect some complaints from players who don't like the latest announcement.

The most compelling reason though is to minimize cheating in the game. Same critics point out that GTA Online hackers and cheaters prefer Xbox 360 and PS3 consoles. The past gen console simply lacks the anti-cheat safeguards of its current-gen counterparts. Interestingly, the developer is also thanking GTA community for reporting the cheaters and hackers in their ranks.