What is an internet troll?

An internet troll deliberately tries to provoke, upset or derail others in an online conversation. This can involve inflammatory comments, personal attacks or repeatedly baiting people into arguments. Australia's eSafety Commissioner explains trolling in terms of that behaviour, rather than a particular political viewpoint.

The original article focuses on political influence and fake accounts. Those can overlap with trolling, but they are not its full definition. This English edition distinguishes the behaviour from organised campaigns and avoids assuming an account's identity or funding.

Trolling is not the same as disagreement

Someone can strongly disagree with you without being a troll. Consider the pattern of behaviour: are they engaging with the subject, or repeatedly trying to humiliate people and provoke a reaction? A single critical comment does not establish an organised attack.

Fake profiles and influence campaigns

The original guide describes accounts that praise a person or organisation, or attack their opponents. In an organised campaign, such messages may be coordinated to influence how a topic is perceived. That is a separate question from whether a particular comment is trolling.

Not every provocative account uses a false name or photograph, and an anonymous profile is not automatically deceptive. Likewise, supporting or criticising a political position does not prove someone is paid. Claims about a “troll centre”, employer or campaign need evidence beyond the opinion being expressed.

How to respond

If an exchange is intended to upset you, continuing the argument may make it worse. Consider muting or blocking the account, reporting abuse through the platform and preserving relevant evidence if the behaviour is serious. Seek support from someone you trust when an interaction is affecting you. The eSafety guide linked above includes practical options.

When moderating your own page, focus on clear rules about conduct. Remove or report harassment as appropriate, but do not label every unfavourable opinion as a coordinated campaign. Check factual claims independently and avoid publishing personal information in response.