Italy investigates alleged dark web data leaks targeting Minister Tajani and top officials, with ‘Noname057(16)’ suspected. DIA denies cyberattack.
Rome’s Public Prosecutor’s Office has opened an investigation into the alleged publication of personal data belonging to Minister Tajani, Rome Chief Prosecutor Lo Voi, and Ivano Gabrielli, the head of Italy’s postal police for cybercrimes, on the dark web. The cyberattacks are believed to have been carried out by the pro-Russian hacking group ‘Noname057(16)’ and the data has reportedly been circulating for approximately two weeks.
Minister Tajani addressed the situation on November 7th via social media, stating, ‘Cybercriminals have been publishing my personal data on the dark web for days and trying to access further information about me. Thus, they expose me to new threats and intimidation attempts. My response is very simple: they will not be able to intimidate me in any way. I will continue to work to defend my ministry and Italy. I will further strengthen our ties and cooperation with our allies to be able to protect ourselves.’
Italian newspaper Il Fatto Quotidiano reported on the same day that the pro-Russian hackers known as ‘Noname057(16)’ have been publishing personal data of high-ranking public officials on the dark web for the past two weeks. This activity has raised significant concerns regarding national security and data privacy.
Additionally, reports emerged earlier today of a cyberattack targeting the Directorate of Investigation into the Mafia (DIA). An archive containing approximately 300 files, exceeding 220 megabytes in size, was reportedly offered for sale on the dark web. However, according to ANSA, citing sources familiar with the matter, the DIA has stated that no cyberattack occurred on its website or systems after internal examinations.
