# 27. Rhetorical manipulation
## 27.5. Methodology/Refinements/Sub-species
### 27.5.3. Attacking Approach
#### 27.5.3.7. Trolling
In Internet jargon, the subversion or harassment of an online community by a troll or cooperating trolls, for purposes of disruption, attention-seeking, publicity, advertising, espionage, or propaganda. Some trolls simply seek attention, others stir up trouble for their own personal amusement, and some are even dedicated and malicious. If not checked, effective trolling can drive a wedge in an online community. A good rule of thumb is to evaluate if people are benign by determining if they are intellectually honest. If not, there are various ways to ban a persistent or nagging troll.
***Parent:** [[Attacking Approaches]]*