Fake STCW course warning
How fraudulent training providers sell certificates that won't pass a port-state inspection.
What it looks like
An online 'STCW provider' offers BST modules in two days for low fees, no in-person assessment, and a PDF certificate. The certificate is not registered with any flag-state administration. The first port-state inspection or sign-on muster catches it.
Red flags
- No in-person practical assessment for PST / FPFF / PSCRB.
- No flag-state approval number printed on the certificate.
- Course completion in less time than the IMO Model Course duration.
- Pay-by-crypto or pay-to-personal-account.
How to verify
- Verify the provider on the flag-state administration's approved-providers list.
- Verify the certificate via the flag-state verification portal (see /stcw/certificate-verification).
- Cross-check the provider on /training-centres.
Related
Primary sources
Medium confidence
Last verified