A Manchester entrepreneur has been cleared of a serious computer hacking charge after a private prosecution brought by the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).
Craig Cornick, who runs several businesses in the legal and financial sectors, was accused of historic misconduct alleged to have occurred between 2014 and 2017 in connection with a former company.
The case involved accusations of unauthorised access to computer systems in order to acquire customer contact data without their knowledge.
Following several procedural delays, the trial concluded at Bolton Crown Court this week. A unanimous verdict was delivered by the jury, finding Mr Cornick not guilty of one count of conspiracy to access computer systems without permission.
After the proceedings ended, Mr Cornick commented:
“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 offences, the exchange of consumer data was a prevalent practice among businesses. Regulatory frameworks have since evolved, underscoring the critical importance of ethical data sourcing today.
Mr Cornick stated that he had shown full willingness to engage with the ICO and assist in their investigation process from the outset.
Despite this, the ICO opted not to conduct a formal interview with him during the case.
“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.”
Although he was acquitted of the most serious allegation, a secondary charge of unlawfully obtaining personal data resulted in a majority guilty verdict from the remaining ten jurors. The charge carries only a financial penalty as its maximum sentence.
Mr Cornick’s legal team has already confirmed plans to lodge an appeal against the secondary verdict.
“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 businesses continue to partner with international law firms and insurers, with no known sanctions or compliance violations. They have successfully passed regulatory reviews year after year.
Laura Smith, Head of Corporate and Financial Crime at Cartwright King Solicitors, commented:
“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’s legal team continues to pursue the appeal process while he remains focused on his companies and team.
