Shipping companies have been warned about fraudulent messages offering vessels safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for cryptocurrency payments, amid ongoing conflict in the region, according to Reuters and maritime security firm Marisks. The scam targets ships stranded near the strategic waterway, with messages falsely claiming to represent Iranian authorities and requesting fees in Bitcoin or Tether to secure transit clearance. Marisks said the communications are fraudulent and not linked to any official entity.
The warnings come as tensions in the Strait of Hormuz disrupt global shipping. Hundreds of vessels and around 20,000 seafarers remain stuck in the region due to blockades and security risks, creating conditions that scammers are exploiting.
Security analysts say the confusion surrounding access to the waterway, combined with rising financial pressure on shipping firms, has made companies particularly vulnerable to such schemes.
The Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil and gas shipments, has seen significant disruption since the escalation of conflict earlier this year, increasing both operational risks and opportunities for fraud.
