The Crown Prosecution Service has issued new guidance that could see internet trolls prosecuted and jailed for posting Photoshops and hashtags.
New rules from the CPS say that those who design Photoshops to humiliate other people could face court action, as could people who create "derogatory" hashtags that target victims.
Also included in the new guidelines is "doxxing" - the posting of other people's personal information online - and "mobbing" - encouraging other people to harass an individual.
Director of public prosecutions Alison Saunders said: "Social media can be used to educate, entertain and enlighten, but there are also people who use it to bully, intimidate and harass.
"Ignorance is not a defence and perceived anonymity is not an escape. Those who commit these acts, or encourage others to do the same, can and will be prosecuted."
The new guidelines cover potential offences in England and Wales and are subject to a 16-week public consultation.
The CPS notes that it would "not usually be in the public interest" to prosecute consensual sexting when two children in a relationship are of a similar age, but that prosecution may occur in cases of "exploitation, grooming or bullying".
The guidelines cover prosecutions under the Malicious Communications Act 1988, the Communications Act 2003 and potentially the Serious Crime Act 2007.
Prosecutors are reminded that for trolling to be prosecuted it must be deemed "grossly offensive", with the guidance adding: "A communication sent has to be more than simply offensive to be contrary to the criminal law."
