Online harassment — trolling, threats, someone who won't leave you alone — is more common than people admit, and it's not something you have to just tolerate. The right response protects you and builds the case to stop it.
First moves
- Don't engage. Harassers want a reaction; replying usually escalates it.
- Document everything — screenshot messages with dates, URLs and usernames before blocking. This is your evidence.
- Block and mute to cut off contact.
- Report it to the platform — most have harassment reporting tools.
If it's serious
- Threats of violence, stalking, or sharing private images are often crimes — report them to the police with your documentation.
- Tighten your privacy and security settings so they can't reach you elsewhere.
- Tell someone you trust — you don't have to handle it alone.
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Protect your accounts too
Harassers sometimes try to break into accounts. Turn on two-factor and review your security — see protecting your information online.
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It's not your fault
Being targeted says nothing about you. Focus your energy on documenting, reporting, and protecting yourself — not on winning the argument.