Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani has confirmed that the nation's cybersecurity defences successfully repelled a coordinated series of cyberattacks, which have been attributed to Russian origins. The sophisticated attempts targeted critical digital infrastructure associated with the ongoing Winter Olympics and key diplomatic posts.
Targets Included Olympic Sites and Diplomatic Missions
Minister Tajani, speaking to journalists during an official visit to Washington D.C., disclosed that the thwarted operations were aimed at several high-profile targets. These included official websites for the Winter Olympics and accommodation providers in the host town of Cortina d'Ampezzo, where the curling competitions commenced this Wednesday.
The foreign minister explicitly stated, "We prevented a series of cyberattacks against foreign ministry sites, starting with Washington, and also involving some Winter Olympics sites, including hotels in Cortina." This announcement comes merely two days before the grand opening ceremony scheduled at Milan's iconic San Siro stadium.
Attribution to Russian Actors
While providing limited operational specifics to protect ongoing security protocols, Tajani was unequivocal in attributing the source of the malicious activity. He confirmed the attempted digital incursions were "of Russian origin," highlighting the persistent threat state-sponsored actors pose to international sporting and diplomatic events.
Enhanced Physical Security for the Games
Concurrently, Italy's Interior Minister, Matteo Piantedosi, addressed parliament to outline the extensive physical security measures in place for the Winter Olympics. A formidable force of 6,000 security personnel is being deployed across the vast Games footprint, which spans from Milan to the Dolomites mountain range.
This comprehensive security apparatus includes highly specialised units such as:
- Bomb disposal experts
- Counter-sniper teams
- Dedicated anti-terrorism squads
The dual revelations concerning both cyber and physical security underscore the multi-layered approach Italian authorities are implementing to safeguard the global event, its participants, and the nation's sovereign interests against complex, hybrid threats.
