Criminal Criminal

What Happened When 33,000 People’s Therapy Notes Were Released Onto the Internet

Aug 25, 2026 · 45m

Summary

Host Phoebe Judge interviews journalist Jenny Kleeman about the massive Vastamo therapy hack in Finland, where 33,000 patients' sensitive records were leaked. The episode details the investigation into suspect Julius Kivimaki, a notorious hacker who was arrested in Paris and convicted of aggravated invasion of privacy. Kleeman shares victim stories, including the profound psychological trauma caused by the breach, and describes her chilling interview with the unrepentant Kivimaki.

Topics discussed

Sponsors: IM8 and Odoo Introduction: The Vastamo hack and ransom demand Interview with Jenny Kleeman on the Ransom Man case Victim Tina's story and reaction to the breach The hacker's drip-feed strategy and data dump Victim reactions and initial suspicions about the hacker Vastamo's response and lax security findings Identifying the hacker through leaked home folder clues Julius Kivimaki's history of hacking and harassment Sponsors: Skylight and Odoo Digital evidence linking Kivimaki to the hack Investigation challenges and ongoing circulation of notes Impact on victims: Identity theft and public exposure Kivimaki's arrest and charges The trial process and public screenings Conviction, sentencing, and compensation for victims Interview with Kivimaki and his lack of remorse Kivimaki's current status and host's reflections Conclusion and show notes
Listen ad-free on Castria