Fraudulent crypto scams target stranded ships near Strait of Hormuz

Maritime security firm MARISKS has warned of fraudulent messages targeting shipping companies whose vessels remain stranded near the Strait of Hormuz, amid ongoing tensions and disrupted maritime traffic in the region.

According to the alert, unknown actors claiming to represent Iranian authorities have contacted shipping firms demanding cryptocurrency payments in Bitcoin or Tether in exchange for “safe passage” through the waterway. The messages reportedly promise clearance once vessels pay a transit fee after alleged approval by Iranian security services.

MARISKS clarified that these messages are scams and are not connected to any official Iranian authority. The firm urged shipowners and operators to exercise caution and verify all communications through official channels.

The development comes as maritime traffic in the region remains severely disrupted following escalating tensions involving the United States and Iran. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint through which nearly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas passes, has seen repeated closures, inspections, and security incidents.

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Reports indicate that hundreds of vessels and thousands of seafarers remain stranded in the Gulf due to instability and shifting control measures. Earlier incidents included reported gunfire on commercial vessels attempting to transit the strait, forcing some ships to turn back.

While Iran has previously suggested introducing transit fees for vessels passing through the strait, the current fraudulent scheme appears to exploit the uncertainty surrounding maritime access and ongoing ceasefire-related negotiations.

Security analysts say such scams often emerge in conflict zones where regulatory control is unclear and commercial shipping faces operational risks. They warn that cyber-enabled fraud is becoming increasingly common in global maritime corridors.

Authorities and industry stakeholders continue to monitor the situation closely as shipping companies face heightened financial and security risks in one of the world’s most important energy transit routes.