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
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