Shipping companies operating near the Strait of Hormuz have been targeted by fraudulent messages promising safe passage in exchange for cryptocurrency payments, according to the Greek risk management firm MARISKS.
The alerts come as tensions remain high in the Gulf, where hundreds of vessels and thousands of seafarers are stranded due to fluctuating blockades imposed by both the United States and Iran. The waterway, a critical global energy route, typically handles a significant share of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas shipments.
According to MARISKS, unknown actors posing as Iranian authorities have sent messages to shipowners requesting transit fees in cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin or Tether. The firm has warned that these communications are fraudulent and not linked to official Iranian entities.
The situation is further complicated by ongoing ceasefire discussions and proposals from Tehran to introduce regulated tolls for vessels transiting the strait. Meanwhile, security risks persist, with reports of ships attempting to navigate the passage being forced to turn back after coming under warning fire.
The combination of geopolitical tensions, maritime insecurity, and emerging cyber-related fraud highlights the increasing complexity of operating in one of the world’s most strategic chokepoints.
Source: Newstimehub
