Dealing with Trolls in Listservs
Trolls can be a major disruptive force in Listserv communities, derailing discussions and creating a hostile environment. Here is a guide to identifying and removing trolls from your Listserv:
Identifying Trolls
Trolls often exhibit the following behaviors on Listservs:
– Posting inflammatory, irrelevant, or offensive messages to provoke reactions[1][3]
– Repeatedly posting the same message or argument, even after it has been addressed[1][3]
– Attacking or insulting other members personally rather than addressing the topic[1][3]
– Spreading misinformation or making false claims[1][3]
– Attempting to dominate discussions and silence other voices[1][3]
At the expert level of trolling, you may see the six tricks of trolls employed.
If you notice members exhibiting these disruptive behaviors, they may be considered trolls.
What if a Troll Calls You A Troll or Nazi for Moderating?
As a moderator, if a troll calls you a troll or a Nazi for silencing them, the best approach is to:
1. Remain calm and professional in your response. Do not stoop to their level of insults and name-calling.[6][8][9]
2. Reiterate the community guidelines and explain that their behavior is disruptive and violates the rules of the Listserv. Make it clear that further violations will result in suspension or banning.[6][8][9]
3. Avoid engaging in a back-and-forth argument. Simply state the facts about their behavior and the consequences, without getting drawn into an emotional debate.[6][8][9]
4. If they continue the abusive behavior, follow through on moderating or banning them from the Listserv. Do not hesitate to take firm action to maintain a healthy community.[6][8][9]
The key is to remain objective, stick to the facts, and not let the troll’s provocations sway you. As the moderator, you have the authority and responsibility to enforce the rules, even if the troll tries to accuse you of censorship or bias. Stay the course and do not let them derail the discussion.[6][8][9]
Removing Trolls
As a Listserv owner or moderator, you have several options for dealing with trolls:
1. Issue a warning: Privately email the troll and explain that their behavior is unacceptable and must stop. Outline the rules and expectations for the Listserv.[1][3]
2. Moderate posts: If the troll continues to post disruptive content, you can set the Listserv to a moderated mode, where all posts must be approved before being sent to the group.[1][4]
3. Suspend or ban the troll: If the troll refuses to comply with the rules, you can suspend or permanently ban them from the Listserv. Provide a clear explanation for the action.[1][3][4]
4. Encourage positive discussion: Foster an environment of respectful, on-topic dialogue. Actively promote constructive conversations and discourage unproductive arguments.[1][3]
5. Enlist community support: Reach out to other Listserv members and ask them to report any disruptive behavior. A united front against trolls can be very effective.[1][3]
Remember, as the Listserv owner or moderator, you have the authority and responsibility to maintain a healthy, productive community. Do not hesitate to take firm action against trolls who threaten the integrity of your Listserv.[1][3][4]
Citations
[1] https://www.wikihow.com/Create-a-Listserv
[2] https://useworkshop.com/blog/how-to-create-a-listserv/
[3] https://gaggle.email/what-is-a-listserv/
[4] https://www.lsoft.com/manuals/16.0/LISTSERV16.0_ListOwnersManual.pdf
[5] https://www.simplelists.com/blog/what-is-a-listserv/
[6] https://www.reddit.com/r/bestof/comments/cz6p2/a_moderators_response_when_requested_to_censor_a/
[7] https://www.openaccessbpo.com/blog/content-moderators-deal-internet-trolls/
[8] https://www.concordiatechnology.org/blog/how-to-respond-to-internet-trolls
[9] https://www.npr.org/sections/publiceditor/2014/09/24/348775874/policing-the-trolls-the-ins-and-outs-of-comment-moderation
[10] https://www.theverge.com/2018/7/12/17561768/dont-feed-the-trolls-online-harassment-abuse