MUMBAI: The cybercrime wave that has affected Sony companies and a number of government agencies, businesses and individuals in recent months has hit Sony Pictures as well.

Sony Pictures Entertainment chairman and CEO Michael Lynton and Sony Pictures Entertainment co-chairman Amy Pascal said in a joint statement, "Yesterday afternoon a group of criminal hackers known as "LulzSec" claimed to have breached some of our websites. We have confirmed that a breach has occurred and have taken action to protect against further intrusion. We also retained a respected team of experts to conduct the forensic analysis of the attack, which is ongoing."

"In addition, we have contacted the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation and are working with them to assist in the identification and apprehension of those responsible for this crime.We deeply regret and apologize for any inconvenience caused to consumers by this cybercrime," the duo added.