Don't feed the trolls

The Australian Communications and Media Authority’s Cybersmart program has developed actions to help Australian children and youth protect themselves and others against the impact of trolling.
Trolling is when a user intentionally causes distress, anger and argument in an online public forum for the purpose of disturbing other users. You can protect yourself by taking the following action:

1. IGNORE the troll—don’t respond to nasty, immature, offensive comments. Giving trolls the attention they want only gives them more power.
2. BLOCK the troll—take away their power by blocking them. If they pop up under a different name, block them again.
3. REPORT trolls—report to site administrators. If they pop up under a different name, report them again. If they continue, contact the police.
4. TALK with friends and family—If a troll upsets you, talk about it … it’s not you, it’s them. Visit the Cybersmart Online Helpline or call Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800.
5. PROTECT friends from trolls—if trolls are upsetting a friend, tell them to Ignore, Block, Report. Tell their family and other friends and encourage them to seek support.

Cybersmart is encouraging all Australians to ask R U OK this Thursday 13 September in support of R U OK? Day.
R U OK? Day prompts Australians to connect with others, recognising that one of the greatest protective factors for our mental health is a sense of connectedness with others and a sense of belonging.
If you or someone you care about has been affected by trolling contact the Cybersmart Online Helpline or Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800.