beware of the trolls

Beware of the trolls!

What is an internet troll?

"Someone who posts inflammatory, extraneous, or off-topic messages in an online community, such as a forum, chat room, or blog, with the primary intent of provoking readers into an emotional response or of otherwise disrupting normal on-topic discussion.

Trolling can be silly, but it can also be scary.

Be aware and be ready.

Places where trolling occurs online: Youtube video comments Blog comments Even WE get these! Forums Email Any social media site Anonymous social networks

More on trolling.

https://www.lifewire.com/types-of-internet-trolls-3485894

The best way to respond to a troll?

Ignore them.

Trolls want to provoke an emotional response from you. DONT engage.

What happens when things get serious?

When a troll wont leave you alone,

Take action.

You can take your complain to civil or criminal court: More on this.

Court is a pricey option, but you can always start with a threat to sue.

Brush up on the federal cyber-stalking laws Use your resources. USA.gov, for example.

https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2014/11/what-the-law-can-and-cant-do-about-online-harassment/382638/http://www.haltabuse.org/resources/laws/federal.shtmlhttps://www.usa.gov/online-safety