Italian foreign minister's personal data published on dark web; Russia-linked groups accused

Italy's deputy prime minister and foreign minister Antonio Tajani said in a social media post on Saturday that his personal data had been published on the dark web. "For days, cyber criminals have been releasing my personal data on the dark web and seeking more information; this exposes me to new threats and intimidation," he said.

"They are also targeting my family; they are even willing to pay for more details about me and my loved ones. My answer is simple: I will not bow to threats of any kind," he said.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed solidarity with Tajani following disclosures about the activities of Russia-linked hacker groups, saying attempts to sell the confidential information of government officials are a worrying matter that must be closely watched. The threat comes against a backdrop of recent incidents across Europe, including fake bomb threats and diverted aircraft.