Italy is grappling with a series of cyberattacks that have disrupted key government and transport systems over the weekend. Hackers breached the websites of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Milan’s Malpensa and Linate airports, forcing authorities to scramble for answers. A pro-Russian hacking group, NoName057(16), has claimed responsibility, linking the attacks to Italy’s support for Ukraine.

Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani didn’t hold back when addressing the issue. “Today’s attack is undoubtedly of Russian origin,” he said. This is the third breach targeting the ministry in as many days, raising serious concerns about Italy’s preparedness to counter digital threats.

A Worrying Trend

The cyberattacks didn’t stop at government institutions. Transport systems in Siena and Turin were also targeted, though the disruptions were reportedly minor. Still, the timing and coordination of these incidents point to a broader strategy.

Ivano Gabrielli, head of Italy’s Postal Police, shed light on the situation. “We’ve been monitoring repeated attacks for three days. These strikes are part of a larger effort to destabilise countries aligned with NATO,” he said. 

While the immediate damage was contained, Gabrielli emphasised the need for vigilance. The attacks, he noted, are not random—they’re calculated moves designed to exploit weaknesses in critical infrastructure.

A Swift Government Response

In response to the breaches, Minister Tajani announced the formation of a new Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence Department within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This department will focus on strengthening defences and protecting sensitive systems, especially those tied to Italy’s diplomatic missions. 

“This isn’t just about security—it’s about resilience,” Tajani said, reflecting the urgency of the situation.

The attacks also rattled Milan’s Malpensa Airport, where online services faced delays. Flight operations remained unaffected, but the incident served as a wake-up call for airport authorities. 

“This highlights the need to prioritise cybersecurity,” an airport spokesperson said. The sentiment is echoed across Italy, as businesses and institutions reassess their digital safeguards.

Who Are NoName057(16)?

The pro-Russian hacking group behind these attacks is no stranger to controversy. 

NoName057(16) has made a name for itself by targeting NATO countries that openly support Ukraine. Their method of choice—Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attacks—may seem simple, but it’s highly effective. By flooding systems with traffic, they render websites and services temporarily inaccessible, causing chaos and undermining public confidence.

A cybersecurity expert in London explained the broader implications. 

“This isn’t just about one group or one country. It’s about using cyber warfare to disrupt, intimidate, and influence,” they said. 

The expert added that such attacks are increasingly seen as tools of hybrid warfare, blending digital and traditional tactics to achieve geopolitical goals.

Lessons from the Frontlines

Italy’s experience is a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities inherent in modern digital systems. 

The breaches may not have caused lasting damage, but they’ve exposed gaps that could be exploited on a larger scale. 

For Italy, the creation of a dedicated cybersecurity unit is a crucial step, but experts warn that it’s only part of the solution. International cooperation will be key to staying ahead of these evolving threats.

“We’re not just talking about protecting systems—we’re talking about protecting trust,” the London expert noted. As digital infrastructures become more integrated into daily life, the stakes for governments and institutions have never been higher.

What’s Next?

For Italy, the path forward is clear: stronger defences, better coordination, and a focus on resilience. 

But the bigger picture is less certain. As nations grapple with increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks, the lines between conflict and peace are blurring. What’s happening in Italy today could be a warning for the rest of the world tomorrow. 

One thing is clear—cybersecurity isn’t just an IT issue anymore. It’s a matter of national security.