**Pro-Russian Group Noname057(16) Launches DDoS Attacks on Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics**

Italian authorities have thwarted a series of Russian-linked cyberattacks aimed at Foreign Ministry offices and Winter Olympics websites and hotels in Cortina d'Ampezzo, according to Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani. The attacks, launched by the pro-Russian hacker group Noname057(16), are believed to be retaliation for Italy's pro-Ukraine stance.

"We have foiled a series of cyberattacks on Foreign Ministry offices, starting with Washington, and also on some Winter Olympic sites, including hotels in Cortina," Tajani said during a trip to Washington. "These are Russian-led actions."

Noname057(16) claimed responsibility for the DDoS attacks, which targeted numerous Italian government websites, including the Foreign Ministry, as well as several hotels and resorts in the Cortina area. The group listed other targets, including the Italian embassy in Washington and consulates in Sydney, Toronto, and Paris.

"The attacks were meant to disrupt the Winter Olympics, but thanks to the hard work of our authorities and Italy's National Cybersecurity Agency, they had a limited impact," Tajani said. "However, we are aware that other attacks may target the Winter Olympics in the coming weeks."

The Milano Cortina 2026 organizers are taking extra precautions, anticipating further cyber threats. Italian authorities will deploy 6,000 security officers across Milan-Dolomites Games sites, including bomb squads, snipers, and anti-terrorism units, as announced by Interior Minister Piantedosi.

According to experts, the attacks were likely carried out using botnets capable of launching DDoS attacks of a magnitude that requires complex mitigation. The recent AISURU botnet attack is an example of such powerful cyber threats. While Noname057(16) does not appear to be affiliated with AISURU, the threat landscape remains high.

"We will continue to work closely with international partners to identify and disrupt these Russian-led cyberattacks," Tajani emphasized. "Italy's commitment to protecting its national interests and supporting Ukraine in this challenging time is unwavering."

**Follow me on Twitter:** @securityaffairs **and Facebook and Mastodon**