Four technology journalists and their families have sued Hewlett-Packard, the world's largest computer maker, over the company's controversial investigation into the identity of a boardroom mole.

Five lawsuits claiming “illegal and reprehensible conduct” were filed in San Francisco Superior Court against HP, Patricia Dunn, the company's former chairman, and Kevin Hunsaker, the company’s former ethics chief.

Both executives were ousted last year because of their roles in HP’s investigation of leaks by a board member to the media.

The probe has already led to criminal investigations and congressional hearings over the use of social security numbers and other personal information by private investigators employed by HP to obtain private telephone records — a process known as pretexting.

The case has raised questions over the relationship between journalists and the companies they cover.

This year The New York Times said that it had sought to dispel the “possible perception that [it] might be trading coverage for compensation” by seeking a settlement with HP with the money donated to a worthy cause.

The plaintiffs include three reporters from CNET Networks, the online technology news service — Dawn Kawamoto, Stephen Shankland and Tom Krazit — and one reporter from The Associated Press, Rachel Konrad, who is Mr Shankland’s wife.

Other plaintiffs are Ms Kawamoto’s husband, Jon Kawamoto, and Mr Shankland’s parents, Thomas and Rebecca Shankland.

The lawsuits allege invasion of privacy, intentional infliction of emotional distress, and engaging in unfair business practices. They seek unspecified damages and a jury trial.

HP said in a statement: ”In an attempt to resolve this matter short of litigation, HP made a substantial settlement offer to the reporters, their family members and a charity of their choice. Unfortunately, rather than respond to the offer, they have decided to sue.”

In December, HP paid $14.5 million (£7.3 million) to settle civil claims arising from the leak investigation.

The company added that it would defend itself in court.

A lawyer for the plaintiffs said: “We’re filing the lawsuits to make sure this never happens again.”

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