Italian Foreign Minister and Vice Premier Antonio Tajani said Saturday that his personal data has been leaked on the dark web, exposing him and his family to ongoing threats and intimidation by cybercriminals seeking to buy further confidential details.
In a separate statement, Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni blamed pro-Russian hackers for the leak, expressing solidarity with Tajani and calling attempts to sell confidential information about government officials a matter of grave concern that must be addressed with utmost determination.
Tajani made the announcement on social media following a string of recent European security incidents, including flight-diverting hoax bomb threats, threats against broadcasters, attacks on supermarket refrigeration systems, and drone incursions.
While Tajani did not specify the nature of the leaked data or directly name responsible parties, he suggested the cyberthreat is ongoing, reiterated Italy's support for Ukraine, and vowed not to be intimidated.
"I will not allow myself to be intimidated in any way," Tajani said, pledging to strengthen international cooperation to defend his ministry and Italy.