As the old adage goes: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Such is the case with fake Halo 4 beta invite pages, which have apparently been set up by some unscrupulous people. 343 Industries' David Ellis warned fans not to fall for the trick.

The warning was tweeted (via CVG): "If you see a page claiming to allow you to sign up for a Halo 4 beta be advised, IT'S A FAKE." Though Ellis didn't mention specific sites making the offer, it seems likely these were phishing scams.

Microsoft hasn't officially announced a beta or even given a firm release date for Halo 4. The game is slated for holiday 2012, so if a beta is planned we would expect it to hit in mid-to-late summer. Right now would be way too premature, which should serve as another warning sign for would-be suckers.