troller

A troller is a person who deliberately posts inflammatory, extraneous, or off-topic messages in an online community, such as a forum, chat room, or blog, with the intent of provoking emotional responses or disrupting discussion. The act of trolling is characterized by its disruptive and often malicious nature. Trollers may engage in a variety of behaviors, including making personal attacks, spreading misinformation, or deliberately misinterpreting others' posts.

The motivations behind trolling can vary widely. Some individuals may troll for amusement, deriving pleasure from the reactions they elicit. Others may be driven by a desire for attention or a feeling of power. In some cases, trolling can be a form of cyberbullying or harassment, aimed at causing distress to specific individuals or groups.

Online platforms and communities often implement various strategies to combat trolling. These can include moderation by administrators or community members, the use of automated detection systems, and the ability for users to report or block problematic behavior. While complete eradication of trolling is difficult, these measures aim to mitigate its impact and maintain a more positive online environment. The term "troll" is also used metaphorically to describe someone who intentionally provokes controversy or disagreement in real-world situations.