Bangkok: Dogpiling, an online mob mentality phenomenon, poses a significant threat to individuals' lives through social judgment. In today's digital age, social media often becomes a platform for harsh criticism and online attacks, particularly in Thailand, where this behavior is referred to as "a mob attack." This universal behavior, known as "dogpiling," can have severe consequences, instantly impacting a person's life.
According to Thai News Agency, the "Verify Before Sharing: Keywords" program aims to introduce the term "dogpiling" to enhance public awareness and foster a safer online environment. Dogpiling refers to online situations where an individual's post goes viral, leading to widespread backlash from people who may not personally know them. This backlash is often characterized by aggressive criticism and defamation through harsh language.
The structure of dogpiling involves three key components: a trigger that sparks dissatisfaction, targeting by a "director" who guides others to attack, and amplification, which expands the backlash. Victims of dogpiling face various forms of online criticism, including abusive comments, public shaming through sharing, and mass reporting of social media accounts.
A warning is issued to "tour leaders" who share information leading to verbal abuse and "tourists" who join in the insults. Aggressive criticism can result in defamation lawsuits and inflict emotional harm on victims, regardless of the truth behind accusations. The misuse of majority power in online mob attacks reflects the dangers of mob rule, threatening individuals' mental well-being and reputations.
The article emphasizes the need for individuals to pause and consider all aspects before engaging in online criticism, in order to break the cycle of cyberviolence and contribute to a mindful and empathetic online society.
Verified with Professor Tham Chueasathaphanasiri, lecturer at the National Institute for Child and Family Development, Mahidol University (interviewed March 6, 2026). Fact checked by Jirachaya Nualnimnoi and Jirapha Onkliang. Article reviewed by Chayanit Phongsai.