What’s the best way to deal with this problem?

  • Unknown's avatar

    I posted a comment on a blog (feedback, not overtly negative) that the blogger got upset at. Since then he has posted a vague threat (threatening to “start a war”) on my blog and sent me a profanity laced email.

    Now, I can delete my blog’s comments and put him on the ban list. Does that prevent him from sending more emails? Is there a best solution to deal with this?

    The blog I need help with is: (visible only to logged in users)

  • Unknown's avatar

    You can put their email and username in the blacklist under settings > discussion and it will automatically hold any comments from them in moderation. The thing is, they can always use a different email address and name, so this is only marginally effective.

    My suggestion would be for now and until they give up, just turn comment moderation on for your entire blog (settings > discussion). That way there is absolutely no chance of one of their comments getting through.

    Also, in case they make actual threats about physical harm, I would suggest keeping their comments and not deleting them as evidence if it is needed.

    As far as emails, again I would suggest keeping them as evidence, but as far as I know, the settings at discussion won’t block on the contact form. Also, if they are coming in on a contact form, and haven’t replied to any of them, don’t. That way they don’t get your email address from the reply.

    Also, you can look this link over: http://en.wordpress.com/abuse/ .

  • Unknown's avatar
  • Unknown's avatar

    You’re welcome.

    Also, if there are any physical threats, it might be time to talk with the police.

  • Unknown's avatar

    If you feel the comments make him look ridiculous, crazy or unprofessional, you might consider leaving them up and responding in a calm, professional manner, particularly if it is a competitor of yours. Flamewars are great for hits, and if you come off as the reasonable, professional one, obviously that is all the better.

  • Unknown's avatar

    Given that he’s located within traveling distance and a reasonably internet savy person could figure out where I live, I’m not going to indulge in a flame war. He seems just angry enough to be a threat.

  • Unknown's avatar

    In that case, do report him to the police. He may not be charged with anything, but he will be “flagged”.

  • Unknown's avatar

    Did he purposely relocate near you because he found you and is now stalking you??

  • Unknown's avatar

    No, he didn’t relocate. I happened to notice on his blog where he was located – he’s a photographer so his contact info is up on his blog/website. I’m not super worried, just being cautious.

  • Unknown's avatar

    You do nice photo work – maybe he is jealous because your work is better?

  • Unknown's avatar

    Thanks for the compliment :) No, I offered some feedback that wasn’t to his liking so he took offense.

  • Unknown's avatar

    If someone can’t take criticism as well as praise, then they should not put their stuff out there for the public to see. They aren’t ready.

  • Unknown's avatar

    Sounds like jealousy and defiance here.
    Send his emails to your local FBI office and if you like, their internet crimes complaint center, they handle harassment and physical threats.

    Some people are tough when they hide behind the computer but they are cowards that won’t say anything to you in person.

  • Unknown's avatar

    Normally I would say fight it out and make blog posts about it. People like personal blog drama and it brings in traffic. But since he COINCIDENTALLY moved near you, I would say stay clear of him and don’t reply to him. Save & screencap everything for possible future evidence.

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