A businessman from Manchester has been cleared of a major computer hacking charge, following a private prosecution initiated by the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).
Craig Cornick, who oversees several businesses within the legal and financial sectors, had been accused of offences said to have occurred between 2014 and 2017, connected to his involvement in a previous firm.
The case centred on allegations that Mr Cornick had unlawfully accessed computer systems to retrieve customer contact data without consent.
After several delays, proceedings concluded this week at Bolton Crown Court. A unanimous verdict from the jury found Mr Cornick not guilty of one count of conspiracy to access computer systems without authority.
Speaking after the court’s decision, Mr Cornick said:
“I am relieved to have been cleared of some serious and damaging accusations. The claims of computer hacking were shown to be completely unfounded, with no evidence of criminal intent or harm.
“While I acknowledge the challenging and important role the Information Commissioner’s Office plays in protecting citizens’ personal data, I reject any notion of wrongdoing.”
At the time of the alleged events, it was not uncommon for businesses to engage in the trading of data. In the years since, regulation around data protection has evolved considerably, highlighting the importance of ethical data practices.
Mr Cornick expressed that he had always been prepared to work with the ICO and support their investigations. However, a decision was made not to formally interview him.
“I was never subject to any searches of my personal or business properties, I was never interviewed, and my companies have never failed an audit,” he continued. “They are built on professionalism and trust and this result changes none of that.”
While he was acquitted of the main offence, a majority verdict was delivered by the jury—reduced to ten members—on a secondary charge of unlawfully obtaining personal data. The maximum penalty associated with this charge is a fine.
Mr Cornick’s legal representatives have confirmed their intent to appeal the decision.
“I have managed all my business ventures both past and present with integrity, and this was made clear throughout the case. I plan to clear my name and protect the reputation of my companies and hard-working staff.
“Our technology has assisted in the processing of millions of claims over the years across multiple businesses and we have always complied with every rule and regulation. This outcome does not reflect how we operate nor who we are.
“My businesses never work with third-party data because the origin of that data cannot be assured.
“We are proud of our record and will continue building ethical, compliant businesses that deliver measurable success.”
His companies remain in good standing and continue to operate alongside leading international law firms and insurers. They have passed every regulatory audit with no compliance breaches or sanctions.
Laura Smith, Head of Corporate and Financial Crime at Cartwright King Solicitors, said:
“We welcome the not guilty verdict for computer hacking which clears Mr Cornick of serious wrongdoing.
“This was a private prosecution brought by the ICO, relating to offences said to have taken place a significant number of years ago. No evidence was produced throughout the prosecution case that showed Mr Cornick, or the company received or processed stolen data.
“He maintains a strong standing within the business, legal and technology communities and will continue to carry on as normal as we work to fully clear his name.”
Mr Cornick now turns his focus to leading his companies through their next phase of growth, while his legal team continues the appeal process.
