Lucy Hale speaks out after topless photos reportedly stolen and published online

Lucy Hale has chosen to speak out after nude photos of the actress were reportedly stolen and published online.

The Pretty Little Liars star, 27, posted a note to her Twitter account Thursday, which seems to reference the photos.

"Well, I wasn't going to comment on something so ridiculous, but since 2017 is gonna be all about speaking my truth... I'm going to say something," she wrote. "Once again, a woman in the public eye was violated, stolen from and her private life and body were exposed for anyone to see. I will not apologise for living my life and having a personal life that is all mine. It's truly unfortunate that being exposed in this way is allowed."

Hale went on to say that she was thankful for the support and well-wishes she'd received from fans since the news broke.

"Thank you for all the sweet, supportive message I've been receiving," she continued. "It was a much needed reminder that I'm surrounded by so much love. I appreciate you all very much."

She finished with a choice expression for those who violated her privacy. "And to whoever did this... kiss my ass."

The photos reportedly appeared on the site Celeb Jihad on Wednesday, but have since been removed and replaced with photoshopped versions.

Hale has not directly referenced the photos, though on that same day she tweeted "I love you guys... thanks for having my back always."

A string of celebrities have had their private photos hacked and distributed in recent years. In one of the most infamous incidents, dozens of stars had their photos stolen and published in 2014, including Jennifer Lawrence. A Pennsylvania man was sentenced to 18 months in prison earlier this year for the crime. Saturday Night Live and Ghostbusters star Leslie Jones' website was hacked this summer, and private information and photos were disseminated. Federal authorities have investigated.