**FRANCE ARRESTS SUSPECT TIED TO CYBERATTACK ON INTERIOR MINISTRY**

French authorities have made a significant breakthrough in their investigation into the cyberattack on France's Ministry of the Interior earlier this month. A 22-year-old suspect was arrested on December 17, 2025, as part of an ongoing probe into the attack.

The arrest is seen as a major development in the case, which has raised concerns about national security and data protection. The suspect, whose name has not been released, is accused of unauthorized access to an automated personal data processing system implemented by the State, committed by an organized group.

This offense carries a maximum sentence of 10 years' imprisonment. Prosecutors said the suspect was already known to the public prosecutor's office and had previously been convicted in 2025 for similar offenses. However, officials have refused to disclose further details about the suspect's prior convictions, citing ongoing investigations.

The Ministry of the Interior was breached on December 11-12, with attackers gaining access to some document files on internal email servers. While officials have not confirmed whether any data was stolen during the attack, they have tightened security protocols and strengthened access controls across the information systems used by ministry personnel.

**LINK TO BREACHFORUMS?**

The arrest comes amidst a growing concern about the involvement of hacking forums in large-scale cyberattacks. The notorious BreachForums hacking forum was relaunched around the same time as France's Ministry of the Interior breach, with one of its administrators publicly claiming responsibility for the attack.

The administrator claimed that the government agency was attacked in revenge for the arrests of five moderators and admins on the forum. However, it remains unclear whether the individual arrested is connected to the BreachForums statements or the actual breach itself.

**INVESTIGATIONS ONGOING**

French authorities are still investigating the cyberattack, with officials from the Office for Combating Cybercrime (OFAC) working closely with prosecutors. A further statement will be issued at the end of the police custody period, which can last up to 48 hours.

**CYBERSECURITY CONCERNS**

The breach and arrest have raised concerns about cybersecurity in France and beyond. As hacking forums become increasingly sophisticated, it is clear that governments and organizations must take proactive measures to protect themselves against cyber threats.

**TIMELINE OF EVENTS**

* December 11-12: Ministry of the Interior breached * December 15: BreachForums relaunched with claim of responsibility for attack * December 17: 22-year-old suspect arrested in connection with breach

This story will be updated as more information becomes available.