17% or more of global oil tanker traffic are dark fleet vessels

Hidden networks of vessels are undermining sanctions, seafarers’ rights and the environment while quietly reshaping geopolitics.

Unlike ordinary ships, which keep their transponders on and are obliged to follow international safety and reporting standards, dark fleet ships switch off their Automatic Identification System (AIS), use false registration papers, disguise their ownership through complex corporate structures or physically alter ship markings.

https://www.context.news/money-power-people/what-is-dark-shipping-and-why-is-it-dangerous