Springfield – Recognizing the increasing number of incidents of false impersonation through the internet and email, State Representative Sid Mathias (R-Buffalo Grove) sponsored and unanimously passed Senate Bill 62; making false impersonation by any and all means of communication a Class A misdemeanor. The measure had no opposition and was strongly supported by the Illinois State Police and Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police.

“It is alarming to see the increasing number of cases involving innocent people whose lives and reputations have been tarnished as well as the people who have been intimidated or threatened due to false impersonation,” said Rep. Mathias.

Senate Bill 62, originally introduced in the Senate by Sen. Ira Silverstein (D-Chicago), strengthens the current law which only prohibits the false impersonation of individuals with specific positions or titles such as public safety personnel, a representative from a charitable organization, veterans and law enforcement officials. Senate Bill 62 expands the law to protect any individual who has been falsely impersonated through any means, not limited to the use of an Internet web site or any form of electronic communication.

“Despite the progress and resources the Internet provides, it also has introduced new concepts like cyberstalking, cyberbullying and fraudulent actions via email,” added Mathias. “New laws that keep pace with our technology are necessary and vital to the safety of our residents and communities.”

Senate Bill 62 has passed the Senate and House and now moves to the Governor’s desk to be signed into law.