Italian foreign minister says personal data leaked on dark web, exposing him to 'threats, intimidation'

Italian premier claims pro-Russian hackers were behind targeting of Tajani, warns against spread of disinformation

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said Saturday that cybercriminals had leaked his personal information on the dark web and were seeking further details him and his family, exposing them to "new threats and intimidation."

In a post on US social media platform X, Tajani said the perpetrators had been circulating his data for days and were offering to pay for additional information him and his loved ones.

"My reaction is very simple: I will not be intimidated in any way," he said.

Tajani linked the alleged targeting to Italy's support for Ukraine, saying: "Our position on Ukraine is the political reason why I have become a target."

He argued that defending Ukraine's sovereignty, democracy, and independence "is dangerous in the eyes of these criminal entities."

The minister also suggested that the threats were partly a response to cybersecurity measures introduced at the Italian Foreign Ministry in recent months.

He said a dedicated cybersecurity directorate had been established on Jan. 1 to counter cyber intrusions by actors "often linked in some way to state entities hostile to us."

"We are operational and connected to our allies," Tajani said, pledging to continue strengthening cooperation against cyber threats.

Following Tajani's remarks, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed solidarity with him in a statement over what she described as activities by "pro-Russian hackers."

"I express my full solidarity with the Vice-President of the Council of Ministers, Antonio Tajani, over what has come to light regarding the activities of pro-Russian hackers and the dissemination of personal data relating to him on the dark web," she said.

Meloni said the sale of confidential information government officials was a matter of "serious concern" that must be addressed with the "utmost determination."

She also criticized the circulation of false images, including by members of the opposition.

"Freedom of expression must never become a breeding ground for disinformation," she added.

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