It's not an exaggeration to say that social media is already running our lives. From communicating with other people, sharing our ideas, and learning new things. Everything is already on the internet.
Though it’s true that social media has been a safe space to discuss various topics, may it be about politics, fashion, lifestyle, travel, food, and many more. Cyberspace isn't always a fun place to be. Oftentimes as we scroll online unwanted “internet trolls” pops up.
What is a troll?
The Merriam Webster Dictionary defines an internet troll, as a person who intentionally antagonizes others online by posting inflammatory, irrelevant, or offensive comments or other disruptive content. Sounds familiar? Basically, internet trolls aim to provoke people by posting harsh words or by disseminating false information on social media platforms and forums. They can be typically found in the comments section on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or other social media platforms. Trolls are present especially in trending topics or posts, they wander online like scattered red polka dots with two things in mind: pick a fight or share disinformation.
How do we identify trolls?
They don’t use their real picture and names online.
Internet trolls do not display their real identity online to avoid being identified when they comment and triggering or offensive words. Be aware of accounts that use unusual images for a profile photo such as a country's flag, cartoons, celebrities, or the most bizarre things like a red dot. However, there are times wherein they use images of real people to appear as a legitimate account so be vigilant. When it comes to their names, they usually use made-up usernames, and oftentimes, it has a lot of numbers.
Their account was just recently made.
Check the profile of the account where you can find the date it was created. If the profile was created within the last month, it is probably because they just created it only to troll others. If accounts were made at the same time, especially at the height of the discussion about important and controversial topics–they are most likely trolls.
They post irrelevant and offensive comments.
Since their goal is to provoke others online, one of the signs, if the account is a troll, is that they leave hateful comments. They initiate a fight with others by insulting them and attacking them in the comments.
They disseminate false information.
-One of the things you need to consider in spotting a troll is if their posts are most likely about fake news. They share links and images on their accounts and even in the comments section fabricated news that aims to mislead people online.
How can you deal with trolls?
Let’s admit it, although we know they are trolls we still get annoyed when they comment irrelevant and hateful comments online. Let us now take a look at how to deal with trolls once you encounter one:
Ignore them
This can be the most basic way to deal with trolls– ignore them. In this way, they can no longer gain engagement from others. You are just involving yourself in a negative discussion once you still reply to trolls.
Block the troll
Block them so you won’t be able to see their annoying posts anymore. Also, they can no longer access your account and they can no longer comment on your posts.
Report them
If the posts and comments are in the form of harassment and threat, do not let it pass and report the account. Visit their profile and click the “Report” button. If the page asks why you want to report them, choose a category such as "fake account" or "harassment and cyber-bullying" so the site can investigate and restrict or delete these troll accounts.
Trolls will surely provoke you but what you can do is not engage or reply to them. Moreover, secure your account by checking your profile settings so trolls cannot have access to your personal information. Most of all, protect your inner peace by not letting their fabricated posts and hateful comments affect you. Starve a troll today!
