In Italy, a criminal network has been disclosed, which sold secret data to foreign intelligence services. An investigation of the prosecutor’s office in Milan revealed that a group of individuals known as “group Pattari” was involved in the illegal collection and sale of confidential information, including data from hundreds of thousands of citizens and organizations. The attackers utilized databases from the Ministry of Internal Affairs and archives of carbines to extract and disseminate this information.
The key figures in the case were identified as Karmin Gallo, a former high-ranking policeman, and Enriko Pazzali, the head of the Fondazione Fiera and Equalize agency, which specialized in investigations. While Pazzali is not a defendant in the case, his company played a significant role in the transfer of data. The main source of leaks was found to be corrupt law enforcement officers who assisted in the transfer of data from police archives to private entities.
Reports indicate that the criminal database contained information on over 800 thousand individuals, including prominent politicians, statesmen, and business representatives. Among those mentioned in the documents were the President of the Senate, Ignazio La Russ, and his son. The criminal group not only sold the data but also utilized a tagging system, marking certain individuals who were under investigation or suspicion. Clients were able to access information on those marked with a “red tag,” indicating their presence under police surveillance.
The investigation uncovered the alarming possibility that confidential data on citizens and companies could have fallen into the hands of foreign intelligence services. This poses a significant threat not only to the privacy of the victims but also to the overall security of the country.