On October 27, 2024, in Italy, a significant breach of sensitive data has reportedly been executed by a group of cybercriminals targeting Italian public figures. This breach affected numerous individuals, including high-ranking politicians like Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. The incident has escalated to involve thousands of individuals associated with Italian politics, business, and other areas of public life, as detailed by the Italian media outlet Rai.

Under investigation by the Milan public prosecutor’s office are approximately 60 suspects, six of whom have been detained. The operation is believed to have Mafia connections. According to Rai, the alleged perpetrators include former security force members, hackers, and IT consultants.

Multiple Databases Compromised

The analysis by investigators indicates that the cybercriminals illegally accessed thousands of confidential records, including bank and tax documents. In certain cases, they compiled profiles using information gathered from mobile phone and credit card records, with reports suggesting phone surveillance as well.

The criminals accessed several critical databases, including those from the police, tax authorities, and health services. The stolen data was reportedly sold for substantial amounts, earning the criminals hundreds of thousands of euros. Victims were sometimes blackmailed using the sensitive information – a tactic frequently targeted at entrepreneurs, but also affecting politicians and journalists.

Alleged Leader and Notable Victims

The gang's alleged ringleader is described as a former police officer currently under judicial custody. Reports revealed a fortnight ago that even Prime Minister Meloni's bank account was compromised, with accusations pointing toward a bank employee from Bari, now dismissed. Other victims reportedly include Meloni's sister Arianna and her former partner Andrea Giambruno.

The breadth of this security breach is indicative of a substantial and sophisticated cybercriminal operation, with implications for the security protocols of governmental and financial institutions in Italy.

This information was originally reported by Heise Online.