The Scam Messages

The fraudsters ask for vessel ownership documents, cargo manifests, and crew lists. After reviewing the paperwork, they send a payment demand—often hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars in Bitcoin or USDT, Reuters reported.

“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,” the fraudulent message reads. “Only then will your vessel be able to transit the strait unimpeded.”

MARISKS said these messages are scams and were not sent by Iranian authorities.

One Ship Paid And Got Shot At

At least one vessel tried to exit the strait Saturday after paying a…

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