A group of pro-Russian hackers launched cyberattacks on around 20 Italian websites, including those of major banks and airports, according to Italy's cybersecurity agency. The attack, which took place on Monday, is believed to be linked to recent tensions between Italy and Russia, as per a recent report by Reuters.

The hackers, known as Noname057(16), targeted websites belonging to Intesa Sanpaolo, Banca Monte dei Paschi, Iccrea Banca, and Milan's Linate and Malpensa airports, among others. However, Italy's cybersecurity agency confirmed that the attacks did not cause significant disruptions, states the Reuters report.

While Intesa Sanpaolo and SEA, the operator of Milan's airports, declined to comment, a spokesperson for Iccrea Banca said its systems were not affected. Banca Monte dei Paschi did not immediately respond to Reuters' requests for comment.

The cybersecurity agency said the attack was motivated by comments made by Italian President Sergio Mattarella, though it did not specify which remarks triggered the response.

This is not the first time Noname057(16) has targeted Italy. In December, the hacker group claimed responsibility for attacking around 10 government websites.