Twitter block changes: Abused users can now block internet trolls more easily

Twitter users will find it easier to block internet trolls who send them abuse after the micro blogging site unveiled new changes.

Alterations to its blocking function means the site's 284 million monthly active users will find it easier to report abusive messages they receive.

Shreyas Doshi, Twitter's director of product development, also announced users would now find it easier to report abuse they have seen on other people's timelines, not just their own.

Tweaks to the function also mean users will be able to see what accounts they have blocked.

Although only a handful of accounts are currently able to access the alterations, Twitter will roll out the changes to everyone "in the coming weeks".

Writing for his blog, Doshi said: "So, we're improving the reporting process to make it much more mobile-friendly, require less initial information, and, overall, make it simpler to flag Tweets and accounts for review.

"These enhancements similarly improve the reporting process for those who observe abuse but aren't receiving it directly."

The modifications come after a number of high profile 'trolling' incidents on the social media site. In August, Twitter reviewed its policies after the daughter of Robin Williams quit the site following a slew of abusive messages sent after her father's death.

Former footballer and talkSport radio host Stan Collymore has also been a vocal proponent of better measures to tackle the issue of trolling after he received racist abuse and death threats.