Narcissistic cretins. Their intent here could be considered a...

Narcissistic cretins. Their intent here could be considered a diluted form of gaslighting as best, or accessory to market manipulation/ extortion at worst. Unfortunately, just because the process is abstracted through public forum and non direct attacks, it doesn't make it any less effective. They are not planting weeds in "Your" or "My" garden, they are throwing seeds randomly throughout the neighborhood, knowing they will spread, capitalizing on human nature and self doubt.