Cyberattacks During the Milano Cortina Olympic Games 2026

Just three days into the Milano Cortina Winter Olympic Games and there have already been attempts to cause disruption to the event via cyber-attacks. This serves as a reminder for event organisers that cyber criminals can strive anywhere at any time and that cyber insurance can help mitigate any breaches. The need for cyber protection in addition to physical security is become an additional focus for event organisers attempting to keep a secure and safe event for all.

Who were the attacks aimed at?

Reporters have stated that the attacks were ‘of Russian origin’ but there has been no information on details such as the tools used, or what impact they might have had on the Olympic operations. These attacks were discovered at a range of targets including Hotels, the Winter Olympics Website and even some Italian foreign ministry offices.

When did these attacks take place?

These attacks were reported to have taken place on Wednesday – the first day of the event, where Team GB competed alongside other nations in the Curling event – and Italian authorities have reassured the public that the events will continue as normal.

With large scale events such as the Winter Games, there will most likely be more attempts to cause disruption to the event with cyberattacks. Industry observers said the foiled attacks in Italy fit with a broader pattern of cyber activity around high profile global events.

Duncan Sutcliffe of Mann Broadbent Insurance stated “this recent spate of Cyber incidents shows that anyone could be impacted, and the sports and events sector are no exception. In this case it appears the attacks are targeted at the Winter Olympics to cause disruption, embarrassment and financial gain. However, large events like this are not the only victims, we have seen very small events and clubs hit by cyber-attacks. Cyber criminals might carefully target large organisations, but they will also use widespread and scattergun tactics with the knowledge that smaller organisations generally have weaker defences, so it is a numbers game”.

 Duncan also went on to state “We urge the sports & leisure sector to recognise the risks and take steps to improve their resilience, part of which is cyber insurance”.

What can you do?

If you are a business owner, or run events, cyber insurance can be the difference between you recovering from a cyberattack or facing huge consequences due to large financial and reputational loss.

At Mann Broadbent, we can assist in getting the correct cyber cover you need.

To speak to one of our experienced brokers, get in touch today at enquiry@mannbroadbent.co.uk or call 01905 612336.