Guide to Annoying Internet Harassers

In the digital age, internet trolls have become a persistent problem for many online users. These individuals intentionally post provocative, insulting, or misleading comments with the aim of causing distress or disruption. They can be difficult to identify, especially when they act anonymously or when algorithm-based programs, known as bots, are involved.

Philipp Kühn, a lawyer based in Cologne, is well-versed in dealing with such issues. As a criminal defense attorney, he advises that insults or defamation are punishable by law. Affected individuals can take screenshots as evidence and file a criminal complaint with the police, even if the troll acts anonymously. However, there is a time limit of three months from the date of first learning about the insult or defamation to file a complaint.

Identifying potential trolls or bots can be a challenging task. Examining a profile's age, authenticity of the profile picture, and content can help. Accounts with short lifespans, unusual profile pictures, and thematic inconsistencies can be potential indicators of bots. Posts from bots may exhibit linguistic inadequacies due to the actors' lack of mastery over the local language.

Konstantin Peveling, a social media expert at the IT industry association Bitkom, highlights the importance of reporting incidents to the platform operator when trolls continue to provoke or insult despite reminders to follow discussion rules. In most social networks, there are buttons to report and block problematic users. Ignoring trolls, known as "not feeding the troll," can help minimize their impact.

Unfortunately, public figures, such as celebrities and politicians, are often targets of internet trolls. In extreme cases, personal data of the target can be posted online. Russia is specifically known for using trolls to spread disinformation, such as in attempts to destabilize other countries and support radical parties. This practice is part of a broader strategy known as hybrid warfare.

Trolls argue unsoundly, avoid questions, and provoke deliberately, often with racist and sexist prejudices. They typically act anonymously, not under their real names. Algorithm-based programs, or bots, can also act as internet trolls and spread misinformation automatically.

In conclusion, while dealing with internet trolls can be a frustrating experience, there are steps that can be taken to protect oneself and report problematic behaviour. By staying vigilant, reporting incidents, and ignoring trolls, we can help create a safer online environment for all users.