As it's been pointed out we actually don't have a real troll problem here at PR compared to many. But I think the best policy to keep the numbers low is to inform everyone with the tools by which trolls will die by. But first let's find a good description of a troll. I'll quote part of Wikipedia's definition (full definition here)

Quote: In the context of the Internet, a troll is a person who makes inflammatory or hostile comments, which by effect or design cause disruptions in discourse, or a post made by such a person. Trolling can be described as a breaching experiment, which, because of the use of an alternate persona, allows for normal social boundaries and rules of etiquette to be tested or otherwise broken, without serious consequences.

I blame all of their antics on them having small pen.. err.. well actually my goal isn't to share my personal views on why they are, just how to deal with them. Lets just move along to me listing my favorite tactics (and some I picked up from google searching) to dealing with trolls then eh?

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The Rules of Engagement for Troll Hunting:

1) They bait, don't fall into their trap and become troll food. Don't feed the suckers!

I'm of the opinion some trolls are actually folks that in their mind are trying to do good. How they sometimes rationalize it to themselves it beyond me though. But the majority in my ever so not humble opinion want to prove how they can out fox an entire group. You feed it, you've probably just become a notch on their holster belt.

2) Trolls even though they appear fun to play with are infact are like tryin' to pet a porcupine.

Even if you do agree with a small portion of what they say, becareful. If the troll is worth it's wasted bandwidth you'll risk getting grouped with him. Going against the grain of common thought is something I support if it's thought out. But lets face it folks, life isn't fair. There is a time and place for everything, being a peace bearer in a war-zone isn't exactly the smartest angle to play

3) First line of defense: Notify a moderator/administrator.

Some people think that the report post button sends a message into the abyss, but I'm here to tell you it infact does work! Actually it works quite well. It's also a good first action to stave off that desire to say something and feed the troll.

4) If you must reply.....

Give them "constructive" replies with no heat in the reply. Stick to the core issue, not their spelling for example or their stupidity. It really frustrates a troll looking to start a flame war. There not normally there to have a true debate, they want someone to flame them back so they feel justified in throwin' some ebola ridden feces back at you.

5) Ignore options are standard issue on many forums acrost the internet.

Learn how to turn on the ignore option and just smile. See no troll, hear no troll, there is no troll. I use it, and I love it.

6) Trolls sometimes come in bonus pack varieties.

Sometimes just a single person with multiple screen names, sometimes their online chums. Just something to think about, no use getting pissed off at "two" people that are actually one and the same. Conserve your energy, hit the report post, then the ignore button and drink a bottle of Bawls and go game. You'll thank me someday. Also are we noticing a trend in my suggestions?

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Anyways, there are a few things I'd like to throw out there for you to think about as well. Sometimes what appears to be a first-post troll, is infact just a very blunt person. Their goal isn't actually to start a flame war, but somehow they just don't have social graces down well. I personally read, and then re-read a questionable post several times before finally deciding how to call it.

Also a troll at times is a good thing I've learned. See back earlier I said it's not advisable to reply in their thread about how part of what they said is right, sometimes a troll can act as a extreme lever to bring out more moderate lurkers though. Something to think about. But on the other hand if the member base goes full tilt boogie to flaming a troll, those moderates might be scared clear to the hills never to visit again.

Iateronmly

Very true. I wouldn't doubt that i am a notch or two on someones holster.

I'm reporting you to an admin.

Quote: Originally Posted by Iateronmly Anyways, there are a few things I'd like to throw out there for you to think about as well. Sometimes what appears to be a first-post troll, is infact just a very blunt person. Their goal isn't actually to start a flame war, but somehow they just don't have social graces down well. I personally read, and then re-read a questionable post several times before finally deciding how to call it. Iateronmly

I agree. sometimes people just don't have the ability to say what they want to without making it sound bad. Not to say that these people are stupid, but not everyone can be great writers. I know I have my moments and something I write may be misunderstood. So like I said I agree, sometimes by re-reading something once or twice you can discern the true meaning of what was really trying to be said.

The bad thing about online conversation is the lack of emotion or inflection in the writing. Some people may type something inflammatory while actually not meaning it that way at all.

The true trolls cannot be reasoned with, their only intent is to see how many people they can rile up. Contact an admin is the best advice.

Another great article, Iateronmly.

I say we throw out some 1337-speaking n00bs as chum and just wait in the blind with shotguns at the ready....

Very well written article Iater. Don't take it the wrong way, but the sensitivity and depth of research took me pleasantly by surprise. This should be a sticky or incorporated into the introductions for new members. First rate.

blah Im late..nice article..

it's a real life troll!!!!

Damn! Look at the beer belly on that troll!

when I saw the title for this article my first thought was that it was about actual trolls. Took me a second to realize that trolls aren't real and internet trolls were your intention.

Very well written article, though.