Italian foreign minister says hackers leaked his personal data

Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani says he has been targeted by "cyber-criminals" who published his personal data online because of his country's support for Ukraine.

"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," Tajani wrote on X.

He did not specify the nature of the threats, but said the hackers were also targeting his family.

The dark web is a hidden part of the internet that is not indexed by common search engines and can only be accessed with specialist software.

"Our position on Ukraine is the political reason I have been targeted," Tajani 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 "circulation of false images" which she said were shared by members of Italy's opposition. She did not give 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 is also the deputy prime minister, said the government was taking the threats seriously.