Living Under a Bridge: Trolling in Digital Media

Despite the communal nature of the web it is still a reflection of our world, and with power of anonymity an arguably worst version. I say this because I feel as though you are more likely to face attack from others on the web than in real life. This online environment can be dangerous. Often you must act differently than how you behave in real-life because of the other people. You may feel that you are a wonderful judge of character and can take care of yourself in all environments, but without being prepped for the dangers of the web you may take everything personally you can only truly be prepared for the digital environment by being on it.

The internet allows the user to be anonymous, allowing them to be whomever they present themselves to be. There are some people who take this as the opportunity to prank others. Known as “trolling,” this pranking has the capability of being malicious.

Much like bridges in an Grimm fairytale, trolls are lurking on the web. They attract their meals using bait, or even directly. In other words, they like to post topics or comments that are sure to provoke a response. They then take this response and hype up or lead on the victim, resulting in a trail of anguish or sorrow. A troll is confident. Having no emotional attachment from their victim they feel no remorse. The act itself of “trolling” involves hoodwinking your victim for your own amusement. Trolling can be “harmless” where the victim only faces confusion (if they realize they’ve been tricked) or it can lead to cyber bullying and suicide.

People need to embrace their sympathetic side when on the web in regard to others feelings. Being anonymous while hurting someones else doesn’t mean you didn’t do it. No matter the environment, you are responsible for your own actions.