To say I don’t like gossip - not the silly, fun kind but the nasty behind your back kind?

[ThatSharpCoralPombear]

I’m fine with the harmless “did you hear what happened?” type of gossip - a little drama or surprise never hurt anyone. But when it turns crazy, cruel, or is clearly being said behind someone’s back in a mean-spirited way, I find it exhausting.

AIBU to think people often use “I’m just being honest” or “we’re just venting” as a cover for low-key nastiness?

I agree. Someone from my younger years (who is a bit unhinged) messaged me recently (she bullied my number out of another person!) because she needed to pass on information about someone from our teenage years.
She clearly did not know the person has stayed a good friend, and the story was devastating.
I put her straight, it was entirely untrue and she replied…
Well that’s not what I heard!!!
A nasty woman with a nasty mind. She was always envious, even when we were children.
I ended the chat with…
I bet you’ve heard some right stories about me over the years I do hope you enjoyed telling them.

I find it really depressing actually OP when people take obvious delight in talking about people in a nasty way behind their backs.