Illinois Laws Against Cyberbullying and Online Harassment

1. Harassing and Obscene Communications Act

(720 ILCS 135/)
This act makes it illegal to send electronic communications (email, texts, social media, etc.) with the intent to:

  • Harass, annoy, threaten, or alarm another person.
  • Make obscene or indecent comments, suggestions, or requests.

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Punishment:

  • Class B misdemeanor for a first offense.
  • Can increase to Class A misdemeanor or felony for repeat offenses or aggravated circumstances.

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2. Cyberstalking Law

(720 ILCS 5/12-7.5)
Cyberstalking includes using electronic communication to:

  • Harass another person on at least two occasions.
  • Cause fear of safety for themselves or family.
  • Monitor, track, or surveil someone electronically.

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Punishment:

  • Class 4 felony (can increase to Class 3 with certain aggravating factors).

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3. School-Related Cyberbullying Laws

(105 ILCS 5/27-23.7)
Public and private schools in Illinois are required by law to:

  • Have anti-bullying policies that include cyberbullying, even when it occurs off-campus if it causes disruption at school.
  • Investigate and intervene when students are bullied or harassed online.

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Applies to:

  • Bullying via social media, texts, apps, or any online platforms.
  • Behavior that creates a hostile school environment or infringes on the rights of students.

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4. Sexting & Non-Consensual Sharing Laws

(720 ILCS 5/11-23.5)
Known as the Revenge Porn Law, it criminalizes:

  • Sharing intimate images or videos without the subject’s consent.
  • Even if the subject originally consented to being photographed.

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Punishment:

  • Class 4 felony, and the victim can also sue civilly for damages.

Summary

In Illinois, it’s illegal to:

  • Harass or threaten someone via digital communication.
  • Cyberstalk or repeatedly cause fear online.
  • Bully students online in a way that affects their school environment.
  • Share someone’s private images without permission.

What You Can Do

If you’re experiencing or witnessing online harassment in Illinois:

  1. Document everything (screenshots, messages, usernames, dates).
  2. Report to the social media platform or app.
  3. File a police report if threats, stalking, or image sharing is involved.
  4. Notify the school if it involves minors and affects school life.