معرفی
Francesco Tommasi is an Associate Professor at the Department of Innovation Engineering, University of Salento, where he teaches Operating Systems, System and Network Programming, and System Security courses for both undergraduate and graduate Computer Engineering programs. His academic affiliation spans multiple departments within the School of Engineering, focusing on the intersection of computer science, networking, and security.
His current research interests center on computer security, with specific focus on authentication systems, web security, and mobile security. His past research includes Quality of Service for computer networks, IP mobility, satellite internetworking, and satellite distance learning technologies. Tommasi has made significant contributions to the field of cybersecurity, particularly in identifying and analyzing novel attack vectors including Browser-in-the-Middle attacks and MobileApp-in-the-Middle attacks.
His recent publications (2021-2025) demonstrate a strong focus on cybersecurity challenges, particularly authentication vulnerabilities, web security threats, and mobile security issues. The research shows progression from fundamental network security concepts to more sophisticated attack methodologies targeting modern authentication systems and mobile platforms. His work bridges theoretical security concepts with practical attack demonstrations, contributing significantly to the understanding of security vulnerabilities in contemporary systems.
- Co-author of the first Internet Proposed Standard signed by an Italian university (RFC 2961)
- Co-author of attack #701 included in the CAPEC database of dangerous cyber attacks
- Scientific director of the Laboratory for Internetworking and Interoperability between Systems (LIIS)
- Co-scientific director of the Cybersecurity Research Lab
- Responsible for the Unisalento node of the CINI Cybersecurity National Lab
Tommasi has directed numerous research projects funded by MIUR, European Space Agency, and regional authorities, including satellite distance learning initiatives, cybersecurity projects, and technology transfer initiatives. He created the Salento Satellite Campus and has been instrumental in developing satellite-based educational infrastructure. His laboratory work focuses on practical security testing and developing defensive mechanisms against emerging cyber threats.
He leads the Laboratory for Internetworking and Interoperability between Systems (LIIS) and co-directs the Cybersecurity Research Lab, which focuses on practical security testing, vulnerability analysis, and developing defensive security mechanisms. These labs collaborate with national and international partners on cutting-edge cybersecurity research and implementation projects.
