A photograph of a rare Wiki troll shortly before it devoured its prey.

Trolls are mischievous supernatural creatures found in Scandinavian folklore. There are trolls in Toronto, and sometimes they even grace our beautiful Torontopedia.

Commonly however, trolls are not so sociable. They may post hostile and contentious claims on Torontopedia. They thrive off spreading obnoxious rumors. They say things that make you want to reply (with your own rude comments) and they ignite edit wars.

Ignore trolls. Don't waste your time arguing with someone who is not arguing fairly. Don't pleasure them with attention or worry.

If a page seems to be getting out of control, consider backing off and editing later. After all, you care much more than they do. They usually have a single-item agenda and this is a lasting resource, not a real-time forum. Don't panic.

If a troll starts deleting images, they can be restored with the instructions on Wiki/Deleted Images.

Don't mistake an individual with a differing viewpoint with a troll. Trolls do things like:

• Delete things they don't like and don't explain themselves.
• Say mean, hurtful or otherwise rude things to spark emotion and needless controversy.
• Repeatedly do things when asked otherwise.

Often trolls act under the cowardly guise of a false screen name. This is the most unwelcome type of troll, and sometimes the most malevolent. Beware of contentious information posted by individuals who appear to be masking their real identity—the information may be a lie uttered through the foul breath of a troll.

Newbies verses Trolls:

Sometimes those new to the wiki do not yet understand how things work, and they might do something like remove a point they disagree with. They will learn and will eventually stop when questioned — be polite. This is what differentiates the two: Trolls do not stop until they get what they want.

Trolls should not be confused with Wiki Gnomes.

This page originally from the davis wiki.