Griefer

Updated: 05/01/2023 by Computer Hope
White griefer word on black background.

A griefer is anyone who intentionally causes other people problems on the Internet through various means. For example, in a competitive online game, such as League of Legends, a griefer may purposely make poor decisions or outright refuse to play with their team, effectively "throwing" the match. When someone does these actions, they're said to be griefing other players who are being griefed.

On an Internet forum, a griefer may constantly make unnecessarily rude replies to other users' posts.

Why do people grief others?

The following reasons are some reasons why someone may grief others online.

  • For the lolz - They think it's funny.
  • Seeking attention - They want others to pay attention to them.
  • To exert power - They experience a sense of superiority by controlling the outcomes of others.
  • Depressed or sad - They're unhappy with their life and want others to feel the same way.

How to deal with griefers

Like trolls, the best way to deal with griefers is to report, ignore, block, or ban them. However, always remember not to interact with them. If you don't give them a reaction, they'll get bored and move on to someone else.

Bad actor, Computer slang, Flamer, Game terms, Internet terms, Malicious, Player killer, Toxic, Troll