The website that sticks a grenade up the ass of the sacred cow.
If you use Usenet (newsgroups), you should be aware there are some long-running confrontations there. If you unwittingly become involved in one, you may become dragged into the fray. Click here to view a few samples of posts from one. To view other such nonsense, click here.
The common Usenet definition: Somebody who is "trolling" (as in fishing) for someone to take the bait. People who take the bait will become engaged in an exchange with the troll while those who recognize a troll in action may simply sit back and "enjoy" the action.
Many trolls say they serve to "lighten up" Usenet.
Some trolls profess they promote freedom of speech, tolerance, and variety of discussion.
Others simply believe Usenet is a place of "anarchy" and intend to be "anarchists."
We believe trolls generally fall in one of three categories:
Mischievous: Humorous intent, not abusive. Could be a "regular" who changes names to play a good-natured prank.
Malicious: Intending to be disruptive or hurtful. May be somebody who opposes a particular view, belief, or lifestyle and attempts to be disruptive in that group's newsgroup. Could also be someone who's a sociopath, or somebody who's previously had a confrontation in the group.
Mindless: Often a juvenile who is "having fun" at others' expense. Could also be somebody new to Usenet who believes they're "anonymous" and is role playing Or "having fun."
The last two groups include long-time trolls, some of whom are part of a group or "brotherhood." They might be best likened to online gang members who seek to impress others of the gang or become part of "troll history" or a "troll legend."
The best advice for handling trolls: ignore them. Deny them what they seek: provoking others. If they can't find the attention they seek, they'll usually leave to seek better fishing elsewhere