Italian foreign minister says hackers leaked his personal data

Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani has reported that cyber-criminals have published his personal information on the dark web. He stated that this breach is a direct result of his country's ongoing support for Ukraine.

Writing on X, Tajani explained that criminals have been releasing his data for days and are actively seeking more information. He noted that these actions expose him and his family to intimidation and new threats, though he did not detail the specific nature of these dangers.

Tajani claimed the attack is politically motivated, stating, "Defending the freedom of a sovereign state, taking a clear stand in support of a nation's democracy and independence, is dangerous in the eyes of these criminal entities." He added, "Our position on Ukraine is the political reason I have been targeted."

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni attributed the incident to pro-Russian hackers and extended her full solidarity to the minister. In an official statement, she remarked, "The sale of confidential information about institutional representatives is a cause of serious concern and must be tackled with the utmost determination."

Meloni also raised concerns regarding the circulation of false images allegedly shared by members of the opposition, though she provided no further details. While the Italian government has supplied both military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine during the war, Moscow has yet to provide a public response to these allegations. Tajani, who serves as deputy prime minister, confirmed that the government is treating these threats with serious intent.