Shipping Companies Warned of Cryptocurrency Scam in Strait of Hormuz

A Greek maritime risk management company, MARISKS, has issued a warning about a scam involving unidentified individuals impersonating Iranian authorities. According to Odaily, these individuals are contacting shipping companies, demanding cryptocurrency payments for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz. MARISKS clarified that these messages are fraudulent and not sent by Iranian officials. The company reported that at least one vessel attempting to exit the strait on Saturday fell victim to this scam and was subsequently attacked. The situation arises as Iran has re-imposed a blockade on the Strait of Hormuz in response to U.S. actions against its ports. This blockade has left hundreds of ships and approximately 20,000 sailors stranded in the Gulf region, unable to proceed.