Fraudulent messages offering safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for cryptocurrency have been sent to shipping companies with vessels stranded near the waterway, according to Greek maritime risk firm MARISKS.
In an alert issued, MARISKS warned shipowners that unknown actors posing as representatives of Iranian authorities were demanding “transit fees” in cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin or Tether in exchange for clearance.
The firm stressed that the messages are fraudulent and not authorized by Iran.
The warning comes as tensions continue to disrupt maritime traffic in the region.
The United States has maintained its blockade of Iranian ports, while Iran has alternately imposed and lifted restrictions on the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy corridor through which about one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas supply previously passed.
Amid ongoing ceasefire discussions, Tehran has floated the idea of imposing tolls on vessels transiting the strait, which it controls.
Hundreds of ships and around 20,000 seafarers remain stranded in the Gulf. On April 18, when Iran briefly reopened the waterway under strict checks, several vessels attempted to pass. However, at least two ships, including a tanker, reportedly came under fire from Iranian boats and were forced to turn back.
MARISKS said at least one vessel that attempted to exit the strait over the weekend and encountered gunfire may have been targeted by the scam.
News organizations could not independently verify the claims or identify the companies that received the fraudulent messages.
