A businessman from Manchester has been found not guilty of computer hacking after a case brought against him by the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) came to a close.
Craig Cornick, who operates a range of ventures across the legal and financial sectors, faced allegations tied to activity within a previous business, said to have occurred between 2014 and 2017.
The ICO’s case focused on claims that Mr Cornick unlawfully accessed computer systems to obtain individuals’ contact details without consent.
The case, delayed on several occasions, concluded this week at Bolton Crown Court. The jury unanimously acquitted Mr Cornick of conspiring to access computer systems without authorisation.
In response to the verdict, Mr Cornick stated:
“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.”
During the years in question, trading in customer data was common practice among many firms. Since then, data protection rules have tightened, serving as a reminder of the need for businesses to validate data sources responsibly.
Mr Cornick stressed that he was open to assisting the ICO’s inquiries from the beginning and was prepared to engage in full.
Nevertheless, the ICO decided against conducting a formal interview with Mr Cornick at any point during their investigation.
“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 the principal allegation was dismissed, a secondary charge of unlawfully obtaining personal data resulted in a majority guilty verdict from the jury, which had been reduced to ten members. The maximum punishment for this offence is a financial penalty.
His legal representatives have confirmed an appeal will be filed regarding the lesser charge.
“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.”
Mr Cornick’s companies maintain professional relationships with major legal and insurance firms worldwide. No compliance issues have been reported, and all regulatory audits have been passed successfully.
Commenting on the result, Laura Smith of 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.”
With his legal team preparing to appeal the secondary charge, Mr Cornick remains focused on the continued growth of his businesses and the well-being of his staff.
