How To Deal With Trolls

This isn't about the Trolls that live under the bridge and stop you from crossing. That's a subject for another time. Like Santa, Trolls do exist. I've seen then. No, this is about internet Trolls.

What's an internet Troll you ask? A Troll is the idiot that posts a message, often in response to an honest question, that is intended to upset, disrupt or simply insult an individual or a group. They hang in chat rooms, forums, or can leave a message in the comment section of your blog.

Trolls are just a group of people that are sad figures. Chances are they have no friends, are single, and just want to share their chronic anger at the world with others. Trolls are never noticed in the real world and seek attention behind the secrecy of a internet connection. Chances are face to face these people wouldn't have the guts to say the things they do online.

Who are Trolls? That's the sad part. They could be a friend, coworker or family member. They are great at moving with stealth. Publicly, like chameleons, they blend in with their surroundings. However, in the comfort of their chair in front of the computer, they become Trolls!

There are ways to tell if you're dealing with a Troll. Naturally they are insulting. Usually in a personal way. They will be obnoxious. They will attack sensitive subjects like, race, religion, politics. or sex.. They will never answer a direct question. The only goal of a Troll is to upset you.

Once you recognize that you're dealing with a Troll, what do you do? There are a number of steps you can take. First, if you can, report the Troll. Most forums, chat rooms or discussion boards have a moderator. While reporting the Troll may get him banned, they can always create another false identity and return.

You can block the Troll. If your site has a blocking or ignore function, use it., Let the Troll entertain himself. Just think to yourself, how long he can ramble before he realizes something's wrong. Call it a slight revenge.

The best way to deal with a Troll is to just ignore his comments. You have to understand that a Troll's existence relies on attention. With no reaction, his life source is sucked out of him. A Troll needs to know he is important. Even if it is in a negative way. Why help the Troll get his rocks off. Ignore the SOB and he will move on to another spot. Unfortunately you can't kill a Troll.