5 tips for dealing with online trolls

An online troll, also known as an online bully, is someone who deliberately tries to provoke or offend other people on social media, gaming platforms and other communities on the internet. They spam comment sections, private messages and chat threads with hurtful insults and other hateful content, usually for the purpose of getting a reaction.

They could be someone you know in real life, but trolls are often completely anonymous, hiding behind unidentifiable usernames and profile pictures. You can get better at spotting trolls and fake news with interactive online games like Get Bad News and Spot the Troll.

The goal of a troll is to get a reaction, but you don't have to let them ruin your experience or stop you from participating in your favourite online spaces. Here are some steps you can take to handle them.

1. Starve the troll

It’s understandable that you might feel angry and want to defend yourself, but remember that a reaction is exactly what a troll wants. Any reaction, even an angry one, gives them what they're looking for. The most powerful thing you can do is not react. Without a reaction, they will often get bored and move on.

2. Record it

Take a screenshot so that you have a record of the original message. This covers you if the person tries to edit or delete their comment once they realise it could get them in trouble. These records can also be handy if things escalate and you need to take the matter further.

3. Use your platform’s safety tools

You can ignore trolls and still make a stand against them. Most platforms have built-in tools to help you. You can learn more about how to report and block users, or filter out certain content, by visiting the safety centre for the platform you're using. For example:

• learn about safety on Instagram

• explore bullying prevention tools on TikTok

• visit Snapchat’s Privacy and Safety Hub

• get information on managing harassment on Twitch

• check out Discord’s Safety Centre.

If you’ve exhausted the reporting and blocking options within your social media platform and things are still really bad, you can make a report to eSafety. 

Before you make a complaint, you need to:

• have copies of the cyberbullying material ready to upload (screenshots or photos)

• report the material to the social media service at least 48 hours before filling out the form

• gather as much information as possible about where the material is located

• allow 15–20 minutes to complete the form.

You can expect to hear from the eSafety Commissioner within two business days after filing your report. The person harassing you may face serious consequences.

4. Take a break

It can be really overwhelming when trolls are constantly pestering you. While you can’t control other people’s trolling behaviour, you can try to limit the amount of time you spend dealing with it.

Logging off social media can be really difficult, but it’s a good idea if you’re feeling upset. You could try:

• turning off push notifications

• logging off from the accounts that are most affected by trolling

• deleting social media apps from your phone

• only logging on at certain times, like when you’re at home.

5. Tell someone you trust

It can help to talk to someone if the trolling is affecting you. Although it can be really tough opening up about the situation, it can make you feel a lot better.

Choose someone who you trust and who will be able to give you the help you need, such as a friend, family member, counsellor or teacher.

Work out what you want to say beforehand, focusing on how the experience is affecting you and what help you want from them. If they don’t give you the support you’re looking for, try speaking to someone else. Find more tips on how to talk to someone you trust.

It's upsetting to be targeted by a troll, but by taking these steps, you can take back control of the situation. Looking after yourself is the most important thing. When you feel ready, you can get back to enjoying your online communities.