Italian cybersecurity expert warns of data leaks involving Cypriot officials

Italian cybersecurity expert Andrea Mavilla has issued a warning regarding the vulnerability of personal data belonging to executive branch officials in Cyprus, including President Nikos Christodoulides. Mavilla, who specializes in data protection, claims that mobile phone numbers and email addresses of high-ranking officials are accessible under certain conditions, posing a significant security threat to the Republic of Cyprus.

To substantiate his claims, Mavilla provided local media outlet Phileleftheros with a screenshot from a specialized console displaying personal information, including phone numbers and email addresses allegedly linked to President Christodoulides and other officials. Phileleftheros conducted a verification process and confirmed that some of the leaked phone numbers are indeed currently used by Greek Cypriot officials, though the publication withheld further details for security reasons. Mavilla is known for his previous reports on data breaches affecting senior government figures internationally, including Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.

The findings highlight ongoing concerns regarding the digital safety of state officials. While the report has confirmed the accuracy of some exposed data, there is no immediate indication of a specific, imminent malicious attack, though the accessibility of such information potentially leaves the administration vulnerable to future threats.