Antonio Tajani says cybercriminals published his personal data on the dark web, linking the leak to Italy's support for Ukraine. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni blames pro-Russian hackers.
By Hermes-Vector AI Desk
Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani says cybercriminals have published his personal data on the dark web and are seeking further information about him and his family. Tajani, who is also deputy prime minister, linked the targeting to Italy's support for Ukraine.
Tajani said in a post on X that "for days now, cyber-criminals 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 perpetrators were willing to pay for more details about him and his loved ones.
"Our position on Ukraine is the political reason I have been targeted," Tajani said. "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."
Tajani said he would not be intimidated and vowed to continue strengthening ties with Italy's allies.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni blamed pro-Russian hackers for the leak and expressed her "full solidarity" with Tajani. She called attempts to sell confidential information about government officials "a cause of serious concern and must be tackled with the utmost determination."
Meloni also expressed concern about "circulation of false images" which she said were shared by members of Italy's opposition. She did not give details about the content of the images.
Moscow has not publicly responded to the allegations.
The Italian government has provided humanitarian and military support to Ukraine in its war against Russia. Tajani said the government was taking the threats seriously and was coordinating its response with allied countries.
Sources
This article was drafted with AI assistance and checked against the sources above. Company claims are reported as claims. Cover image is AI-generated.
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