In brief
Antonio Tajani says his personal data have appeared on the dark web, alleging a pro‑Russian cyber‑attack that threatens his safety and that of his family. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni attributes the breach to Russian actors and warns of a broader plot. Tajani links the surge in intimidation to Italy’s hard line on Ukraine and calls for increased digital defense.
Antonio Tajani announced on X that his personal data were published on the dark web by pro‑Russian hackers, warning of new threats to his safety and that of his family. The announcement came after a series of hoax bomb threats and cyber‑attacks across Europe.
He posted:
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
Tajani added that the attackers target his family, saying, “They are also targeting my family; they are willing to pay for more details about me and my loved ones.” He vowed not to be intimidated.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed solidarity, calling the “attempts to sell confidential information about government officials a matter of grave concern that must be addressed with the utmost determination.” She blamed pro‑Russian hackers for the leak.
In an interview, Tajani tied the attack to Italy’s stance on Ukraine, stating, “Italy’s position on Ukraine is the political reason I have been targeted.” He noted that backing the sovereign state had made him a target in the eyes of criminal actors.
Both Tajani and Meloni said the Foreign Ministry is coordinating the response with allied countries and is strengthening its digital defences to prevent future breaches.
Al Jazeera was the first outlet to report the incident, detailing the personal data leak, the threats, and the political context surrounding Italy’s support for Ukraine.
