Iran Targets Crypto Scam Victims with Gunfire in Strait of Hormuz Incident

Iran Fires on Ship Duped by Crypto Scammers Demanding Bitcoin Toll

Iran opened fire on at least one ship that believed it had paid the required toll to pass through the Strait of Hormuz in Bitcoin. In reality, the vessel had fallen victim to scammers posing as Iranian government officials, according to a report by Reuters and maritime risk firm MARISKS.

The incident occurred on April 18, during a period when Iran briefly allowed ships to attempt passage under heightened scrutiny. At least two vessels, including a tanker, reported that Iranian boats fired shots, forcing them to turn back.

Scammers Exploit Iran’s Bitcoin Toll Policy

In early April, Iran announced it would begin collecting a $1-per-barrel toll for ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, payable in Bitcoin. The announcement was initially hailed by Bitcoin advocates as a step toward crypto adoption in global trade, offering a potential alternative to the US dollar’s dominance.

However, skeptics, including Sam Lyman of the Bitcoin Policy Institute, argued in an April 15 report that collecting tolls in Bitcoin was "virtually impossible" with current technology. Scammers are now weaponizing this narrative, using Iran’s actual Bitcoin toll policy to deceive shipping companies.

Fake Messages Demand Cryptocurrency Fees

MARISKS, a Greek maritime risk management firm, warned shipowners on Monday that unknown actors—allegedly posing as Iranian authorities—had sent messages to oil tankers demanding toll fees in Bitcoin or Tether. The messages instructed companies to submit vessel documents for "assessment by Iranian Security Services" before paying cryptocurrency fees to "transit the Strait unimpeded at the pre-agreed time."

"Those specific messages are a scam," MARISKS stated, adding that it had not yet responded to requests for comment from DL News.

At least one vessel targeted by the scam was among those fired upon by Iranian forces on April 18, MARISKS confirmed. It remains unclear which shipping companies were affected.

Regional Tensions Amplify Risks

The incident unfolds as the conflict between Iran, Israel, and the US enters its seventh week, raising concerns about escalating maritime security risks in the region. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil trade, has become a focal point for both legitimate toll collection and fraudulent schemes.

Shipping companies are urged to verify all communications regarding toll payments and avoid responding to unsolicited requests for cryptocurrency transfers.

Pedro Solimano is a markets correspondent based in Buenos Aires. Got a tip? Email him at [email protected].