Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani says he has been targeted by cybercriminals who published his personal data online because of his country’s support for Ukraine.
“For several days, cybercriminals have been publishing my personal data on the dark web and seeking additional information, effectively exposing me to new threats and intimidation,” Tajani wrote on X.
While he did not specify the nature of the threats, Tajani said his family was also being targeted.
The dark web is a concealed portion of the internet that is not indexed by standard search engines and requires specialized software to access.
“Our position on Ukraine is the political reason I have been targeted,” Tajani said.
“Defending the freedom of a sovereign state and taking a clear stand in support of a nation’s democracy and independence is dangerous in the eyes of these criminal entities,” he added.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni attributed the incident to pro-Russian hackers and offered Tajani her “full solidarity.”
“The sale of confidential information about institutional representatives is a cause of serious concern and must be tackled with the utmost determination,” she said in a statement.
Moscow has not publicly responded to the allegations.
Meloni also raised concerns about the “circulation of false images,” which she said were shared by members of Italy’s opposition. She did not provide details about the content of the images.
The Italian government has provided humanitarian and military support to Ukraine in its war against Russia.
Tajani, who also serves as deputy prime minister, said the government was taking the threats seriously.
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