Italian FM Tajani Targeted by Pro-Russian Hackers Over Ukraine Support
Pro-Russian hackers published personal data of Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani on the dark web, seeking further information on him and his family due to Rome's support for Ukraine.
Italian Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani revealed on Saturday that pro-Russian hackers have published his personal data on the dark web, offering financial rewards in exchange for further information on him and his family. Tajani stated that the cyberattack stems from the Italian government's staunch support for Ukraine and ongoing efforts to strengthen the cyber defense systems of the Italian Foreign Ministry.
According to an investigation published by the Italian newspaper Il Fatto Quotidiano, the activity is spearheaded by the pro-Russian hacker group NoName057(16), which is suspected of maintaining ties to Russian military intelligence, the GRU. Starting October 26, the group published a dark web list of 18 individuals designated as enemies of the Russian Federation, offering financial compensation for sensitive information regarding them. In addition to Tajani, the list features Rome Chief Prosecutor Francesco Lo Voi, Italian Cyber Police chief Ivano Gabrielli, and Aviano Mayor Paolo Tessan-Zanin, whose municipality hosts a US Air Force base. The targets also include high-ranking German law enforcement officials and members of the European Union Agency for Criminal Justice Cooperation, Eurojust. Reports indicate that the leaked data comprises private phone numbers, home addresses, and email addresses. The Rome Public Prosecutor's Office has launched an investigation into the breach.
"Cybercriminals have been circulating my personal details for days and seeking additional information, thereby exposing me to threats and intimidation," Tajani wrote on X. "They are also dragging my family into this and are willing to pay for further details about me and my loved ones." Tajani made it clear that he refuses to be intimidated in any way, attributing the targeting to Italy's unwavering support for Ukraine's freedom and independence. He noted that the Foreign Ministry established a dedicated cyber unit earlier this year to counter threats from hostile actors. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed her full support for Tajani and condemned the campaign, stating that trading confidential information on state representatives is deeply alarming and demands a resolute response. Russia has not yet officially commented on the affair, having consistently denied involvement in foreign cyberattacks.
