Loading...

News Flash

Elections under cyber attack: Piantedosi’s warning on digital threats

Cyber security and democracy: protecting elections and major events from disinformation

Politics under cyber fire

Table of contents

  • Politics under cyber fire
  • 5,000 attacks in six months
  • Disinformation as a weapon
  • From the Olympics to Milan-Cortina 2026

Politics under cyber fire

Italy’s Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi has issued a stark warning: elections are a prime target for cyberattacks.

Speaking at the General States on Defense, Space, and Cyber Security, he stressed that manipulated online content and its automated distribution can distort public debate and undermine the integrity of the electoral process.

5,000 attacks in six months

In the first half of 2025 alone:

  • The National Cybercrime Center handled 532 cyberattacks, including 363 against critical infrastructure and essential service operators.
  • Across the territory, cybersecurity operational units faced over 5,000 incidents, with 72 suspects identified.

A silent cyber war is underway, often invisible to ordinary citizens.

Disinformation as a weapon

It’s not just about technical hacking. The spread of fake news and manipulated content on social media represents a major risk, fueling insecurity, distrust, and social polarization.

From the Olympics to Milan-Cortina 2026

The Paris 2024 Olympics were targeted by disinformation campaigns and false terrorist threats. With the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics approaching, protecting the digital space has become a top national priority.

To top