815 ILCS 5/2.5a

"Offer" shall include every offer to sell or otherwise dispose of, or solicitation of an offer to purchase, whether orally or by means of publication, including but not limited to printed and electronic media, a security or interest in a security for value; provided that the term "offer" shall not include preliminary negotiations or agreements between an issuer and any underwriter or among underwriters who are or are to be in privity of contract with an issuer, or the circulation or publication of an identifying statement or circular or preliminary prospectus, as defined by rules or regulations of the Secretary of State.