Fraudsters Posing as Iranian Authorities Demand Bitcoin, USDT Payments from Ships at Strait of Hormuz

Gate News message, April 21 — Scammers impersonating Iranian authorities have targeted shipping companies with vessels stranded west of the Strait of Hormuz, demanding Bitcoin and Tether (USDT) payments in exchange for safe passage, according to maritime risk firm Marisks.

The fraudsters contacted shipowners claiming to represent Iranian security services, requesting company and vessel documentation before assigning cryptocurrency transit "fees." Once payment was submitted, the scammers promised vessels would be cleared to transit the strait safely at a scheduled time. Marisks confirmed the communications were fake and unrelated to any official Iranian body. The scheme exploits geopolitical tensions and regional uncertainty, with earlier rumors about Iran considering legitimate toll systems having lent credibility to the fraud.

The Strait of Hormuz remains heavily disrupted due to Middle East conflict. As one of the world's most critical maritime chokepoints, it handles approximately one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas exports; any instability directly impacts energy markets, shipping insurance, and trade routes. Experts warned that even legitimate cryptocurrency payments tied to Iranian-controlled waterways could expose companies to severe sanctions risks.