Pro-Russian Hackers Leak Italian Foreign Minister's Personal Data Online, Meloni Blames Cyber Attackers

Italy's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani has revealed that his personal data has been published on the dark web. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has attributed the leak to pro-Russian hackers.

Tajani announced via a social media post on Saturday that "for days now, cybercriminals have been publishing my personal data on the dark web and seeking further information, effectively exposing me to new threats and intimidation." The threats against Tajani, who also serves as Italy's vice prime minister, come amidst a series of hoax bomb threats that have disrupted flights, raised security alerts at broadcasters, and targeted supermarket refrigeration systems across Europe.

"They are also targeting my family; they are willing to pay for more details about me and my loved ones," Tajani stated in his X post. "My response is very simple: I will not be intimidated in any way."

Meloni expressed her solidarity with Tajani following the revelations about the activities of pro-Russian hackers and the publication of personal data on the dark web. She described attempts to sell confidential information about government officials as "a matter of grave concern that must be addressed with the utmost determination."

Tajani suggested that his stance on Ukraine, which involves defending the freedom of a sovereign state and supporting a nation's democracy and independence, is the political reason behind the targeting by these "criminal entities." He also indicated that the cyber threats might be a response to the Italian government's efforts to enhance the Foreign Ministry's digital defenses.

While Tajani did not specify the exact nature of the leaked information, he indicated that the cyber threat is ongoing. He confirmed that the ministry is treating the threats seriously and is coordinating its response with allied nations.