Salander explains that she hacked Wennerström’s computer back in January when she was under Frode’s contract. When he canceled the assignment, Salander continued investigating Wennerström for her own amusement. Using an electronic cuff devised by Plague, she mirrored Wennerström’s hard drive and gained full access and control over his computer. The data reveal that Wennerström is involved in high levels of corruption on a global scale, involving a series of fraudulent companies and thousands of bank accounts used as clearing houses.

A few days later, Blomkvist learns that Janne Dahlman, Millennium’s managing editor, is an informant for Wennerström. Blomkvist devises a plan to deceive both Dahlmann and Wennerström by having the former believe that the magazine is in crisis. He instructs his staff to keep up the appearance of a struggling magazine so Dahlmann can leak the false information. By keeping Wennerström diverted, Blomkvist focuses on the real task of writing his exposé. He avoids contacting Berger, who is away on holiday. He is ashamed to tell her that he agreed to cover up the Vanger murders.

Blomkvist moves to his cabin in Sandhamn and devotes the following months to writing his report. He exchanges emails with Berger, assuring her that the magazine is not at risk but giving no further details about his piece on Wennerström or the Vanger investigation.