Crypto to pass Hormuz? Scammers posing as Iran authorities defraud ships

• Unknown scammers posing as Iranian authorities have sent messages to shipping companies demanding crypto payments in exchange for safe transit.
• One vessel that was fired on is believed to have been victim.
• Over 20,000 seafarers are stranded on hundreds of ships, creating conditions of desperation that scammers are exploiting. 

Scammers posing as Iranian authorities have allegedly been sending fraudulent messages demanding cryptocurrency payments from shipping companies desperate for a way out of the Strait of Hormuz.

Read more: Iranian media reports sharp drop in traffic through Strait of Hormuz

What messages said, who sent them?

Greek security firm MARISKS sent out an alert on Monday, warning shipowners of scam messages claiming to represent Iranian authorities demanding transit fees in the cryptocurrencies Bitcoin and tether.  

Messages sent read: "After providing the documents and assessing your eligibility by the Iranian Security Services, we will be able to determine the fee to be paid in cryptocurrency (BTC or USDT). Only then will your vessel be able to transit the strait unimpeded at the pre-agreed time."

Why it worked

Tehran has itself proposed collecting tolls from ships seeking safe transit amid ceasefire talks, which added to the uncertainty among shipowners. 

MARISKS has stated it believes one vessel that tried to exit the strait and was hit by Iranian gunfire was a victim of the fraud; unknowingly sailing straight into the danger after payment, believing they would receive protection.

Read more: UN maritime agency warns of shipping crisis near Strait of Hormuz

Scale of confusion 

Hundreds of vessels remain stuck with roughly 20,000 people. The IRGC has launched 21 confirmed attacks on ships since the war began and has set sea mines in the strait. 

Iran's real transit system has also drawn criticism, with UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper rejecting the idea of Iran charging tolls for ships. 

Pakistan also offered some vessels temporary transit as Iran agreed to allow 20 Pakistani vessels through the strait.