Internet trolls who encourage others to self-harm will be given hefty jail terms under new plans

Despicable online trolls who encourage others to commit serious self-harm face five years in prison under new plans.

Police will crack down on anyone hiding behind internet anonymity to encourage injuries that amount to serious bodily harm, such as broken bones.

1

Changes being made to the online safety law make it a crime regardless of whether the victims actually harmed themselves.

This is true even when the perpetrators are unaware of the person they are targeting to put an end to the trolling, which can result in life-altering injuries.

Offenses also include encouraging a person to go hungry or not take prescribed medication.

Attorney General Alex Chalk said: “There is no place in our society for those who consciously seek to encourage serious self-harm in others.”

“Our new law will send a clear message to those cowardly trolls that their behavior is unacceptable.

“Building on the existing measures in the Online Safety Act, our changes will make it easier to convict these despicable individuals and make the internet a better and safer place for all.”