Madonna releases statement against suspected hacker

Madonna has released a statement following the arrest of her suspected hacker. 

Last year a number of work-in-progress demos from her forthcoming album Rebel Heart were leaked online, prompting the star to formally release six songs from the collection early ahead of its release in March. 

The BBC reports that a 39-year-old Israeli man has been arrested on suspicion of hacking into Madonna's computer as well as a number of other international artists. No charges have yet been filed. 

In a statement on her Facebook page, Madonna said: "I am profoundly grateful to the FBI, the Israeli Police investigators and anyone else who helped lead to the arrest of this hacker. I deeply appreciate my fans who have provided us with pertinent information and continue to do so regarding leaks of my music.

"Like any citizen, I have the right to privacy. This invasion into my life - creatively, professionally, and personally remains a deeply devastating and hurtful experience, as it must be for all artists who are victims of this type of crime."

The arrest comes a day after Icelandic singer-songwriter Bjork was forced to release her new album Vulnicura two months ahead of schedule after it leaked over the weekend.

Madonna is due to perform songs from Rebel Heart at the Grammy Awards next month, while she is also rumoured to be appearing at the BRIT Awards in London on February 25.

Rebel Heart is released in the UK on March 9. Listen to the album's lead single Living For Love below: