Chancellor of Italy is targeted by hackers and has personal data leaked; prime minister blames Russia

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said this Saturday (7) that he was the target of hackers who leaked his personal data.

In a post on the social network X, the chancellor stated that he was exposed on the dark web and that cybercriminals also involved his family:

"For several days now, cybercriminals have been disclosing my personal data on the dark web and seeking to obtain more information, thus exposing me to new threats and intimidation. They also involve my family and are willing to pay to obtain more details about me and my loved ones. My reaction is very simple: I will not be intimidated in any way," he said.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni blamed pro-Russian hackers for the leak. In an official statement, she lamented the situation and called attempts to sell confidential information about government officials "a matter of extreme concern that must be addressed with the utmost determination."

Tajani also said he believes the hackers' motivation is Italy's support for Ukraine in its war against Moscow:

"Our position on Ukraine is the political reason I am in their crosshairs: defending the freedom of a sovereign state, taking a clear stand in favor of democracy and the independence of a nation, that is what is dangerous in the eyes of these criminal entities."