Sentencing council says effect on victim of losing personal information must be taken into account, regardless of item’s value

The loss of precious photographs or sensitive personal information when a smartphone is stolen will result in tougher sentences for thieves under new guidelines, with less focus on the monetary value of the item.

The sentencing council rules, published on Monday, say sentences should now take into account whether a stolen possession was of substantial value to the loser – regardless of monetary worth and would result in emotional distress or a loss of confidence caused by the crime.

Related: Stiffer sentences introduced for thefts from war memorials