Disruptions to public order and monetary penalties: potential consequences for internet trolls

In the digital age, internet trolls have become a persistent nuisance, making provocative, insulting, and defamatory posts online. However, for victims seeking redress, there are options available.

Two experts in the field, Konstantin Peveling, a social media expert at the IT industry association Bitkom, and Philipp Kühn, a lawyer specializing in cases involving internet trolls and their victims, have explained the process for victims seeking damages or compensation.

If the identity of the troll is known or has been identified, victims may be able to enforce claims for damages or compensation. Civil lawsuits may be possible if a troll has caused damage to reputation, business, or psychological distress. The courts have discretion as to whether and to what extent they grant immaterial damages or compensation to victims of internet trolls, with amounts typically in the lower four-figure range.

To receive damages or compensation, victims must prove in court in great detail and credibly that they have suffered business damage or psychological distress due to the troll's actions. The severity of the case will determine whether the claim is for injunctions or damages.

Victims can file a complaint against internet trolls who make insulting or defamatory posts. Social media platforms can also be held accountable for not removing repeated posts containing insulting or defamatory statements. In such cases, victims can demand the deletion of repeated posts and blocking of problematic users from platform operators.

Unfortunately, the anonymity of trolls and their use of bots often makes it difficult to trace them, resulting in many escaping punishment. Despite this, it is crucial for victims to persist in their pursuit of justice.

In the absence of available search results identifying an internet troll in Berlin or Cologne responsible for damages to reputation, business, or psychological stress, it serves as a reminder that the fight against internet trolls is ongoing. For those affected, the advice remains the same: document the incidents, seek legal advice, and stand firm in the pursuit of justice.