Pro-Russian hackers leak Italian foreign minister’s data on dark web | Cybersecurity News
Italian Foreign Minister Faces Cyber Threats as Personal Data Leaked on Dark Web
By Al Jazeera Staff
Published Nov. 7, 2026
Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani reported over the weekend that his personal information has been disseminated on the dark web, with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni attributing the breach to pro-Russian hackers.
In a post on social media, Tajani stated that “for days now, cybercriminals have been publishing my personal data on the dark web and seeking further information, effectively exposing me to new threats and intimidation.” He emphasized that these threats extend to his family, with individuals seeking to obtain more personal details about them. “My response is very simple: I will not be intimidated in any way,” he declared.
Tajani, who serves as vice prime minister, is confronting these threats amid a recent series of hoax bomb alerts throughout Europe that have resulted in flight diversions and heightened security measures at various locations.
Prime Minister Meloni voiced her support for Tajani in light of these developments, stating that the situation involves serious breaches of privacy and security. She characterized the attempts to sell confidential information about government officials as “a matter of grave concern that must be addressed with the utmost determination.”
In his remarks, Tajani suggested that his position on Ukraine has made him a target. He noted that advocating for the sovereignty and democracy of a nation can be deemed dangerous by malicious adversaries. Additionally, he indicated that the cyber threats might be a response to the Italian government’s initiatives aimed at strengthening the Foreign Ministry’s digital defenses.
While Tajani did not specify the nature of the information exposed, he has indicated that the threat remains active. He confirmed that the ministry is taking these threats seriously and is collaborating with allied nations to coordinate an effective response.
