An internet troll is a person who deliberately posts provocative, inflammatory, or off-topic messages online-such as on social media, forums, chat rooms, or comment sections-with the intent to provoke emotional responses, disrupt conversations, or cause confusion and distress among other users. Trolls often use fake profiles and anonymity to hide their identity while engaging in this behavior

. The motivations behind trolling can vary from seeking amusement to causing harm or disruption. Trolls may enjoy the emotional suffering they cause, deriving a sense of power from upsetting others. Psychological research links trolling behavior to traits such as sadism, psychopathy, and Machiavellianism, indicating that it can be a form of antisocial behavior

. Trolls typically:

• Post off-topic or inflammatory comments to derail discussions.
• Refuse to acknowledge facts or evidence, focusing instead on emotional provocation.
• Use fake or anonymous profiles.
• Comment broadly and indiscriminately to inflame arguments

The term "troll" in this context originates from early internet culture, where "trolling" referred to baiting newcomers with misleading or repetitive topics, but it has since evolved to describe more hostile and disruptive online behavior

. In summary, an internet troll is essentially an online provocateur who seeks to upset or manipulate others for personal amusement or to cause disruption, often hiding behind anonymity to do so