Jeffrey Bowie, the CEO of a local cybersecurity firm, has been arrested for allegedly planting malware on computers at SSM St. Anthony Hospital.
Bowie, who until recently touted himself as a leader in protecting businesses from cyber threats, now faces charges that he became the very threat he promised to prevent.
Police say the incident unfolded on August 6, 2024, when an alert employee noticed Bowie, a non-hospital staff member, using a computer designated strictly for employees.
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The employee’s quick-thinking report set off an immediate internal investigation by the hospital’s IT teams.
A subsequent forensic review revealed that Bowie had installed sophisticated malware on the system.
According to the News9 report, a probable cause affidavit states that the malware was programmed to capture a screenshot every 20 minutes, automatically transmitting those images to an outside location.
Such malware could have provided an unauthorized window into sensitive hospital operations, raising concerns about potential data leaks, privacy violations, and system vulnerabilities.
Bowie is now facing two counts of violating the Oklahoma Computer Crimes Act.
Authorities have not disclosed the possible motives behind his actions but are investigating any connections between Bowie’s cybersecurity firm and the hospital prior to the incident.
In response to the incident, SSM Health released a statement reassuring patients and the public:
“On August 6, 2024, an unauthorized individual was identified accessing a hospital computer in an alleged attempt to install malware. The protection of data and the integrity of our systems are top priorities. Due to precautions in place, the issue was addressed immediately, and no patient information was accessed. We worked closely with law enforcement during the investigation.”
Cybersecurity industry experts say the incident is a sobering reminder that those entrusted with safeguarding critical infrastructure can sometimes pose the greatest risk. “When the guards become the threat, it’s particularly troubling,” said Dr. Alicia Martinez, a cybersecurity analyst. “It highlights the importance of robust internal controls and employee vigilance.”
SSM Health says it has since conducted a thorough review of its computer systems and has increased monitoring and employee training.
“We want our patients and staff to know their safety and privacy are paramount,” the spokesperson added.
Bowie remains in custody as the investigation continues. If convicted, he could face significant penalties under Oklahoma’s computer crimes statutes.
The incident has sparked renewed conversations about trust, oversight, and accountability in the cybersecurity sector.
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