Last Updated on: 30th June 2025, 03:41 pm
A businessman from Manchester has been acquitted of computer hacking following a lengthy case brought against him by the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).
Craig Cornick, who operates a portfolio of businesses within the legal and financial space, had been facing accusations related to conduct within a previous company between 2014 and 2017.
The prosecution centred around claims that Mr Cornick had accessed computer systems without authorisation to collect customer contact data.
The case, which faced several delays, concluded this week at Bolton Crown Court. The jury returned a unanimous not guilty verdict in relation to one charge of conspiracy to unlawfully access computer systems.
Following 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.”
At the time of the alleged incidents, it was common for companies to buy and sell customer data. Since then, data regulations have tightened significantly, reinforcing the importance of due diligence regarding data provenance.
Mr Cornick noted that he had made himself available to the ICO early on and was open to engaging fully in their inquiry.
Nevertheless, he was not formally interviewed during the 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 main charge was dismissed, a majority verdict of guilty was delivered on a lesser count of unlawfully obtaining personal data. The jury had reduced to ten members by this point. The offence carries only a financial sanction.
Mr Cornick’s legal team has confirmed their intention to challenge the secondary verdict through appeal.
“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 long-standing partnerships with leading law firms and insurers, having passed all compliance audits without incident.
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.”
With the appeal underway, Mr Cornick continues to focus on his businesses and supporting his teams as usual.
