Italian Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani stated on social media X on November 7 that cybercriminals have been spreading his personal data on the dark web for days and attempting to obtain additional information, including about members of his family. According to the Italian diplomat, the attackers are subjecting him to threats and intimidation and are ready to pay for confidential information about him and his loved ones. Tajani did not specify exactly what information fell into the hackers' hands or how it was obtained.
The reason for the attacks is a principled position on Ukraine
The Italian minister directly linked the attack to his public position in support of Ukraine. "For days, cybercriminals have been spreading my personal data on the dark web and looking for other information, subjecting me to new threats and intimidation. They are also targeting my family and are ready to pay for additional details about me and my loved ones," Tajani wrote. According to him, the attacks were triggered by his "clear and principled position in support of Ukraine and the defense of the freedom of a sovereign state." Tajani emphasized that he will not give in to intimidation: "My answer is very simple: I will not give in to intimidation in any way. I will continue to work to protect my ministry and Italy, and to strengthen ties and cooperation with our allies so that we can defend ourselves together.">
Cyber Directorate at the Farnesina
Tajani noted that the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (the Farnesina) takes cyber threats seriously. On January 1, a special "cyber directorate" was established within the department to protect against attacks by hostile state structures. "Our choice, my mission has been fulfilled: we will continue to protect our security and will defend ourselves against cybercriminals. I am convinced that this is the right path to protect the Italian people and our country," the minister stated.
Meloni blames pro-Russian hackers
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed support for Tajani and blamed pro-Russian hackers for the incident. According to her, attempts to sell confidential information about government officials cause serious concern and require a decisive response. As reported by Italian television Sky TG24, the NoName057(1) group may be behind the data dissemination.
Context: Rome's defense policy and position on Ukraine
Tajani's statement came against the backdrop of Italy's ongoing strengthening of its defense capabilities and its consistent support of Ukraine. Recently, Prime Minister Meloni called on the European Union to clearly define negotiators on Ukraine to avoid chaos and disagreements in the dialogue. In addition, the Italian government is preparing a new, 13th military aid package for Ukraine, which, according to reports, may include Aster interceptor missiles for air defense systems.
