Trolling as a new social phenomenon in the internet communication system

The study analyzes Internet trolling as a new social phenomenon that has become widespread in the online community. The research investigates its typical features and shows the difference with other forms of anti-social behavior on the Internet (cyberbullying or spamming). Internet trolls are classified according to the reasons for provoking their destructive actions. The measures to neutralize Internet trolling are proposed. They include not only human or automatic mechanisms for identifying trolls and their messages (reactive measures) but also methods for detecting user’s posts that can be potential targets of online aggression (preventive measures). In the author’s opinion, anti-trolling legislative methods (introduction of criminal responsibility for trolling, ban on Internet anonymity) and mass awareness of Internet users are the appropriate measures in this regard.