What to Do if You Are Trolled
What Is “Trolling”?
When someone knowingly posts inflammatory messages or digressions in an online forum to discredit or distract from the original post. Often trolls just want attention. But sometimes their motives are malicious. Don’t face the trolls alone. We have the experience and expertise to shut down and weather their attacks.
What Are the Different Types of “Trolling”?:
- “Trolling” occurs when individuals deliberately follow and provoke others online, often with offensive content. Trolling can be a nuisance, and it can escalate to threats or coordinated harassment of people and organizations.
- “Doxing” is when private identifying information not publicly available is published online. This information can include sharing an individual’s private email, personal phone number, home address, etc., on various platforms to frighten the individual and encourage additional harassment.
- “Cyberbullying” is the willful and repeated harm inflicted using computers, cell phones, and other electronic devices.
Why Am I Being Trolled?
BU experts who publish articles, provide commentary, or are active on social media can become targets. These attacks are uncommon but are becoming more frequent. While attacks may be intense, they are not usually sustained.
What Should I Do?
- Download the “Trolling” PDF below for more information
- Contact Boston University Public Relations | Social Media: pr@bu.edu or 617-353-2240
- Notify your executive officer (dean, head, or director)
- If you feel that you or your family are in imminent physical danger, call 911 or Boston University Police at 617-353-2121
If You Are Trolled:
- Boston University Public Relations | Social Media is here to guide and support you through this difficult time. Let us advise you on how to handle an attack.
- Responding to trolls often prolongs their attacks. Sometimes the best response is no response.
- Preserve all messages, emails, social posts, or voicemails as evidence. Before you delete or hide anything, take a screenshot.
- Block or Mute Individuals: Several platforms allow you to block or mute individuals. The PR | Social Media team can guide you through these options.
- BU PR |Social Media can help monitor your accounts using specialized social media software. Please contact us for assistance.
- Media outlets may contact you. Consult with us first to determine the appropriate response.
- Attacks may affect your job role, students, or classes. If you believe the incident will disrupt your responsibilities or class experiences, speak with your executive officer about alternative arrangements.
Be Proactive:
- Secure your accounts. Use two-factor authentication and strong passwords. Change your password if your account has been compromised.
- If you anticipate a critical moment (e.g., new research publication, controversial media interview), you can reach out to the PR | Social Media team in advance for their monitoring assistance and guidance.
Your Contacts:
Colin Riley
Executive Director, Media Relations
criley@bu.edu
617-353-5386
Rachel Lapal Cavallario
VP, Public Relations | Social Media
rlapal@bu.edu
617-353-7628
Dave McDonald
Director, Social Media
davemcd@bu.edu
617-358-4266