Let’s face it: there are a lot of trolls on the Internet doing anything they can to upset artists, authors being without exception. This is something I’ve struggled with during my just-over-seven-year career as a author. First, as a newbie, I was taught at a writer’s conference to always be professional. Then, another author told me to just say it when I’ve got something on my mind, which of course would eventually get me in trouble, especially if I tell an editor off–even if I don’t get a sample copy–because they have a network, and they do talk.

So what’s the code of ethics on this?

Obviously, writers should be in control of their emotions on sites like Twitter and just report on the horror scene. But what if someone is walking all over you on your personal Website–or the site’s forum–and you’ll look daft if you let it go on? In this case, I’d say politely warn the person doing the damage and give him an ultimatum: either try to be civil or be banned. This seems the best course of action to me.

Any suggestions? I’m interested on reading comments about this.