ATHENS, Greece — A Greek maritime risk management company has sounded the alarm over a wave of fraudulent messages targeting international shipping firms, warning that cybercriminals are posing as Iranian authorities to extort cryptocurrency payments for “safe passage” through the Strait of Hormuz.
MARISKS, a leading maritime security consultancy, issued an alert this week after shipowners reported receiving suspicious communications demanding transit fees in Bitcoin or Tether. The messages, styled to appear official, claimed vessels would only be cleared to pass through the strategic waterway after submitting documentation and paying fees supposedly assessed by “Iranian Security Services.”
“These specific messages are a scam,” MARISKS emphasized, stressing that the communications were not sent by Iranian officials. One intercepted message 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.”
Strategic Waterway Under Pressure
The warning comes at a time of heightened geopolitical tension. The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow chokepoint between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, is one of the world’s most vital energy corridors, carrying nearly 20 percent of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. Any disruption has immediate consequences for global energy markets.
Maritime traffic has already been strained by escalating hostilities between Washington and Tehran. The United States continues to enforce a naval blockade on Iranian maritime activity, while Iran has intermittently restricted access to the strait. Several vessels remain stranded near the passage, amplifying concerns about security and freedom of navigation.
Diplomatic Efforts Falter
The scam alert also coincides with faltering diplomatic efforts to ease tensions. Earlier this month, U.S. and Iranian officials met in Islamabad for talks mediated by Pakistan, but the negotiations ended without agreement. Key disputes over sanctions and maritime access remain unresolved, and prospects for renewed dialogue are uncertain. While a U.S. delegation is expected to return to Islamabad for further discussions, Iranian officials have yet to confirm their participation.
Cybercrime Meets Geopolitics
Analysts say the fraudulent messages highlight how criminal actors exploit geopolitical flashpoints to target vulnerable industries. With shipping companies already navigating complex risks in the Gulf, the addition of cyber scams demanding cryptocurrency payments adds another layer of uncertainty.
MARISKS urged shipowners and operators to remain vigilant, verify the authenticity of communications, and report suspicious activity immediately. “No legitimate authority requires cryptocurrency payments for maritime transit,” the firm stated, warning that compliance with such demands could expose companies to financial loss and reputational damage.
