The images, which showed Hancock hugging Gina Kolandanzello while rules of social distancing were in force, eventually led to his resignation. The ICO said it had launched a criminal investigation after receiving a report of a breach of personal data by DHSC CCTV operator EMCOR Group plc. The ICO said in a statement: “Given the seriousness of the report and the wider implications for information security of the entire government, the ICO had a legal duty to conduct an unbiased assessment of the available evidence violation of the law. “Forensic analysis revealed that the leaked images were most likely taken by someone who was recording CCTV video screens with a mobile phone.” The ICO said six cell phones confiscated during searches did not contain any CCTV-related material. “After receiving legal advice, the ICO concluded that there was insufficient evidence to charge anyone with a criminal offense under the 2018 Data Protection Act. Therefore, the ICO closed its criminal investigation,” he said. This is breaking news. More to come.
