Sexting is sending sexually explicit text or photographs from mobile devices. Sexting can lead to embarrassment and can also be a felony in Illinois.
Do not send a sexually provocative picture of yourself to another person. Once the photograph is sent, it can't be taken back. That picture can surface in a number of ways or be shared by the person you sent it to without your knowledge. Many times photos are shared between a girlfriend or a boyfriend, but what if the relationship doesn't last.
In 2010, Gov Pat Quinn signed into a law a new state statue that would be a less of a punishment for those under 18 years of age. However, the law is very specific and only incorporates the sending of pictures. Mere possession of child pornography can still be charged as a felony and require the person to register as a sex offender for up to 10 years.
If you receive sexually explicity photos of someone you know to be under 18 years of age, delete them immediately. Notify the sender that the pictures are of a child and should be deleted immediately. If they continue to send you pictures, notify the proper authorities. If you forward the picture to someone else, you can also be charged with a crime!
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