Italian Foreign Minister Tajani’s data leaked on dark web, Meloni blames pro-Russian hackers

Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said in a post on X 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.” He added that the hackers are also targeting his family and are willing to pay for more details about him and his loved ones. “My response is very simple: I will not be intimidated in any way,” Tajani wrote.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed solidarity with Tajani “following the revelations about the activities of pro-Russian hackers, and the publication on the dark web of personal data.” She called attempts to sell confidential information about government officials “a matter of grave concern that must be addressed with the utmost determination.”

The incident comes amid a spate of hoax bomb threats across Europe that have forced flight diversions, security alerts at broadcasters, and attacks on supermarket refrigeration systems.

Tajani suggested he was targeted because of Italy’s position on Ukraine. “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 said. He also indicated the cyberthreats may be a reaction to the Italian government’s efforts to strengthen the Foreign Ministry’s digital defences.

Tajani did not specify what kind of information had been shared but suggested the cyberthreat was ongoing. He added that the ministry was taking the threats seriously and was coordinating its response with allied countries.