Computer hackers have attacked and infiltrated some 150 computers in the French Finance Ministry, stealing sensitive information related to the country's leadership of the Group of 20 economic group.
Budget Minister Francois Baroin said Monday the "spectacular" cyberattack began in December and targeted only G20-related data, not personal records or tax records.
France's network security chief, Patrick Pailloux, told local media that the hacking was carried out by professionals and was the largest-ever cyberattack against the French government.
France took over the rotating presidency of the G20 in November 2010. The G20 brings together the world's major advanced and emerging economies to promote global financial stability.