Family & Safety

In Illinois, stalking is when one person repeatedly contacts, communicates with, or follows another person. This causes the survivor emotional distress and fear for their safety or someone else’s safety.

These repeated interactions can include following, tracking, or monitoring the survivor; leaving objects for the survivor; threatening or hurting the survivor, their loved ones, or a pet; or appearing uninvited at the survivor’s home, work, or school.  Stalking can also occur online (cyberstalking).

Stalking can occur as part of domestic abuse towards a partner or family member, or it can happen with someone who is just an acquaintance or a stranger to them.

Learn more about stalking and legal options to protect yourself.