Alert regarding fraudulent messages promising safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for cryptocurrencies

The Greek maritime risk management company Marisks has announced that fraudulent messages have been sent to shipping companies, promising safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for fees in cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin or Tether.

These messages, which claim to be from Iranian authorities, are considered scams. Currently, hundreds of ships and approximately 20,000 sailors are stranded in the Persian Gulf, in the context of a blockade maintained by the US on Iranian ports. Additionally, Iran has lifted and reimposed the blockade on the strait, through which a large portion of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas is transited. Marisks has warned that at least one vessel, which attempted to exit the strait, was attacked by Iranian vessels, thus confirming the risks associated with navigation in this area.