Rockstar Games has launched new measures against players who cheat in Grand Theft Auto V's multiplayer mode, GTA Online.

The developer announced today that players who have "illegitimately gained" in-game money will have those funds removed from their virtual bank accounts. This is being done to "keep the gameplay environment fair."

"If you received an alert saying that your shared bank balance was adjusted, that is because you had illegitimate funds in your account," the developer said (via Gamasutra).

Only the money obtained through dubious means will be removed from offending players' accounts, not funds purchased through Shark Cards.

The developer also today announced that it has spruced up its ban and suspension policy for GTA Online. First-time offenders will receive a temporary suspension, while they will face a permanent ban for their next infraction. Players temporarily banned cannot access GTA Online at all, while the date that their suspension lifts will be depicted on the GTA V home screen. Additionally, people who have been suspended will lose all progress on their character(s), including property and inventory.

All GTA Online suspensions and bans cannot be appealed, Rockstar said.

You can receive a suspension in GTA Online for doing things like using modded content or exploiting/abusing gameplay mechanics. Rockstar may also suspend you for "manipulating protected game data and code" or "interfering with other players' gameplay experience." Depending on the severity of the incident, as judged by Rockstar, you'll receive a temporary suspension or a permanent ban for doing any of these things.

In other news about GTA Online, Rockstar has announced this year's Halloween event. Players can unlock a rad-looking motorcycle that has a red-eyed skull on it and take part in a new Angels vs. Demons mode. Read GameSpot's previous coverage to learn more about GTA Online's Halloween event.

What do you make of Rockstar's new anti-cheating measures for GTA Online? Let us know in the comments below!