Italy's Tajani Says Cyber Criminals Published His Personal Data on Dark Web

Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani says he has been targeted by cyber criminals who published his personal data online, and he is in no doubt about why. The reason, he said, is his country's backing for Ukraine in its war against Russia.

In a post on the social media platform X, Tajani said the leaks had been going on for some time and had left him exposed to further harm. "For days now, cyber-criminals have been publishing my personal data on the dark web and seeking further information, effectively exposing me to new threats and intimidation," he wrote.

He did not specify the nature of the threats he now faces, but said the hackers were also targeting his family, widening the circle of those caught up in the leaks.

The dark web is a concealed part of the internet. It does not show up in common search engines, and reaching it requires specialist software.

Tajani said there was no question in his mind about the motive behind the leaks. "Our position on Ukraine is the political reason I have been targeted," he said. "Defending the freedom of a sovereign state, taking a clear stand in support of a nation's democracy and independence, is dangerous in the eyes of these criminal entities."

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni blamed the incident on 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 expressed concern about the "circulation of false images," which she said had been shared by members of Italy's opposition. She did not give details about the content of the images, and she did not say who she believed had created them.

The Italian government has provided humanitarian and military support to Ukraine in its war against Russia. Tajani, who is also the deputy prime minister and therefore one of the most senior figures in Meloni's government, said the government was taking the threats seriously. There was no suggestion in his remarks that Italy's position on Ukraine would change as a result of the leaks.