Greek maritime risk management firm MARISKS has issued an urgent warning regarding fraudulent messages demanding cryptocurrency payments from stranded shipping companies for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

Key Points

• Unknown actors are impersonating Iranian authorities to solicit Bitcoin or Tether payments from vessel operators.
• The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical chokepoint for global energy supplies, with hundreds of ships currently stranded in the region.
• MARISKS confirmed these solicitation messages are scams and are not authorized by the Iranian government.
• At least one vessel that attempted to exit the strait on April 19 was reportedly targeted by gunfire after encountering transit complications.
• Approximately 20,000 seafarers are currently affected by the ongoing blockade and regional instability.

Why it Matters

This scam exploits the extreme vulnerability of shipping companies facing significant financial losses due to the ongoing blockade of a vital global energy route. The incident highlights the heightened security risks and potential for digital exploitation during geopolitical conflicts that disrupt international maritime trade.