A new wave of fraudulent messages targeting global shipping companies has emerged amid escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil transit chokepoints. According to a warning issued by Greek maritime risk management firm MARISKS, scammers are attempting to exploit the ongoing crisis by offering “safe passage” to stranded vessels—in exchange for cryptocurrency payments.
Scam Targets Vulnerable Shipping Firms
The fraudulent messages, sent to companies whose ships are currently stuck near the Strait, falsely claim to represent Iranian authorities. These messages demand payments in cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin (BTC) or Tether (USDT), promising secure transit through the volatile waterway.
MARISKS has categorically stated that these communications are not legitimate and are not associated with any official Iranian entity. The firm urged shipowners and operators to remain cautious and avoid engaging with such requests.
One such scam message reportedly reads:
“After assessing your eligibility by Iranian Security Services, we will determine the fee to be paid in cryptocurrency… Only then will your vessel be able to transit safely.”
Crisis in the Strait of Hormuz
The timing of these scams is particularly concerning, as the Strait of Hormuz remains a focal point of geopolitical tension. The United States has maintained a blockade on Iranian ports, while Iran has intermittently imposed restrictions on the strait.
Before the conflict, nearly 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas passed through this narrow maritime corridor. Now, the disruption has left hundreds of vessels and around 20,000 seafarers stranded in the Gulf region.
Reports of Gunfire Add to Chaos
The situation escalated further on April 18, when Iran briefly reopened the strait under strict checks. Several ships attempted to pass through, but at least two vessels—including an oil tanker—reported being fired upon by Iranian boats, forcing them to retreat.
MARISKS believes that at least one of these vessels may have fallen victim to the ongoing scam, although independent verification is still pending.
Cryptocurrency Scams on the Rise
This incident highlights a growing trend of cyber-enabled fraud in global conflict zones. The use of cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Tether allows scammers to operate anonymously, making it extremely difficult for authorities to trace or recover funds.
Experts warn that during periods of instability, industries like shipping, logistics, and energy become prime targets for such schemes due to urgency and financial stakes.
What Shipping Companies Should Do
MARISKS has advised companies to:
- Verify all communications through official government or naval channels
- Avoid making any payments in cryptocurrency for transit clearance
- Report suspicious messages to maritime security agencies immediately
Global Trade at Risk
With ongoing military tensions, fraudulent activities, and disrupted shipping routes, the Strait of Hormuz crisis is not only a security issue but also a major threat to global trade and energy supply chains.
As ceasefire talks continue, the international community remains on edge—watching closely as both geopolitical risks and opportunistic cyber threats evolve in one of the world’s most strategic waterways.
