Table of contents
- The new face of cyber warfare
- Advanced threats and strategic targets
- Evolving attack techniques
- Attack objectives and consequences
- The looming threat of pre-positioning campaigns
- Italy’s response to cyber threats
- The role of AI in cyber security
- Cyber security and economy: an increasingly close connection
- Towards a more effective security strategy
The new face of cyber warfare
Cyberspace has become one of the most contested battlefields in the global scenario. According to the Annual Report on Security Policy 2025, Italy is facing an unprecedented surge in cyberattacks from both state-sponsored actors and criminal organizations.
Advanced threats and strategic targets
In 2024, Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) increased by 12% compared to the previous year, now accounting for 50% of detected cyber offensives. Public institutions were the most targeted (50%), particularly central government administrations (75% of attacks on the public sector).
The private sector was not spared, with key targets including digital infrastructure (14%), transportation (11%), energy (12%), and telecommunications (5%).
Evolving attack techniques
Cybercriminals and state actors are refining their tactics. Three key trends stand out:
- Exploitation of legitimate tools
Attackers use software already present on compromised devices, making detection harder.
- Covert Relay Networks
Sophisticated proxy infrastructures provide anonymity and resilience for cyber offensives.
- Dual use of ransomware
Not just for financial extortion, but also for espionage and digital sabotage.
Attack objectives and consequences
While financial gain remains the primary motive (57% of attacks), cyber espionage has seen a sharp increase, rising from 9% to 25%.
This shift reflects escalating geopolitical tensions and the growing use of cyberspace for state-driven strategic objectives.
Among the most severe attack outcomes:
- Theft of digital identities and credentials (41%);
- Exfiltration of sensitive data (28%);
- Compromise via APTs (19%).
The looming threat of pre-positioning campaigns
A particularly concerning trend is pre-positioning within networks, where attackers implant dormant malware, ready to be activated at critical moments for maximum disruption.
Italy’s response to cyber threats
The Italian government is stepping up its efforts through:
- Continuous cyber threat monitoring;
- Collaboration between intelligence agencies, law enforcement, and private entities;
- Dark web surveillance to detect illicit activities.
The role of AI in cyber security
Artificial Intelligence is revolutionizing cyber security. While it enhances defense mechanisms, it also facilitates advanced cyberattacks, such as:
- Highly personalized phishing attacks;
- Automated vulnerability scanning;
- Micro-profiling for targeted propaganda and recruitment.
Cyber security and economy: an increasingly close connection
Cyber security is not just about network protection; it has become a pillar of national economic and financial security.
The banking sector and digital payments are increasingly exposed to attack maneuvers by foreign competitors and organized criminal groups.
Towards a more effective security strategy
To tackle new threats, it is necessary to adopt an integrated approach that includes:
- Investments in training and specialized skills;
- International cooperation to counter state-sponsored attacks;
- Raising awareness among businesses and citizens about cyber security.
Conclusion
The cyber threat landscape in 2025 demands proactive and coordinated action to protect critical infrastructure, sensitive data, and national stability.
Cyber security is no longer just a technological issue but a strategic national priority.
