Unknown individuals are posing as Iranian authorities, promising ships safe passage through the Hormuz Strait in exchange for payment in Bitcoin or USDT. This new scheme was highlighted by the Greek maritime risk management company Marksis, as reported by Reuters.
Experts examined one of the messages sent by the scammers to shipping companies. The message stated that companies must first provide documents for verification by Iran's security service.
Following this, they must pay a transit fee in cryptocurrency. This supposedly allows them to cross the strait "unimpeded at a pre-agreed time," Marksis reported.
At least one vessel may have fallen victim to this scam. It attempted to exit Hormuz on April 18 but came under fire.
The Hormuz Strait Remains Closed
Earlier this month, Financial Times journalists, citing oil exporters, reported that Iran intends to demand payment in cryptocurrency from shipping companies for passage through the strait. No official confirmation has been provided.
Later, experts described Tehran's plans as "practically unfeasible." They pointed to ongoing sanctions against the country and the transparency of blockchain, which could pose problems for registered Western firms.
On April 17, Iranian authorities announced the opening of the Hormuz Strait. However, just days later, the situation changed: U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to destroy all power plants and bridges in Iran if negotiations failed.
In response, the other side indicated that it might skip the second round of negotiations while the United States maintains its maritime blockade.
The next meeting between U.S. and Iranian representatives is scheduled for April 22, according to Axios. However, the situation remains unstable due to ongoing threats from both countries.
Experts from Bitwise stated that the conflict in the Middle East has brought Bitcoin closer to becoming a real means of payment.