Uffizi Cyber-Attack Reported Museum Denies Breach

Italy’s famous Uffizi Galleries in Florence has confirmed that it was targeted by a cyber-attack, but officials have strongly denied that any security systems protecting its artworks were breached.

The museum said that while hackers managed to access parts of its internal IT systems, no damage was caused and no artworks were stolen. Authorities also confirmed that critical security systems, including alarms and surveillance controls, remain fully secure and were not accessible from outside networks.

According to Italian media reports, attackers may have tried to collect sensitive information such as internal layouts, access codes, and camera positions. It was also reported that a ransom demand was sent to museum director Simone Verde, with threats to release the data online. However, the Uffizi rejected these claims, stating there is no evidence that such detailed security data was actually obtained.

Officials explained that the museum’s security infrastructure operates on closed internal systems, making it extremely difficult for hackers to access critical information remotely. They also said that no passwords were stolen and that staff devices, including phones, were not compromised.

The cyber-attack reportedly took place on February 1 and affected multiple sites linked to the Uffizi, including Palazzo Pitti and the Boboli Gardens. Despite this, all locations have remained open to visitors, and normal operations have continued without major disruption.

The Uffizi is one of the most visited museums in the world and houses iconic artworks such as The Birth of Venus and Primavera. Due to the importance of these collections, security measures have been under close review.

Museum officials said that ongoing upgrades to security systems had already been planned and were further accelerated after the incident. These include improvements to digital surveillance and infrastructure, based on recommendations from law enforcement agencies.

Reports also suggested that some valuable items were temporarily moved to a bank vault. The museum clarified that this step was part of scheduled renovation work and not directly linked to the cyber-attack.

Despite concerns raised by media reports, the Uffizi emphasized that all artworks, archives, and digital records remain safe. Backup systems ensured that no data was lost, and any temporary disruptions have already been resolved.

The museum reassured visitors and the public that its operations continue as normal, with ticketing services and public access unaffected. Officials added that they remain committed to maintaining high security standards to protect one of the world’s most important cultural institutions.