Federal Inmate Text Messaging

Even prisons and jails are adopting new ways of communicating, as technology is a part of our everyday lives. Inmate texting is one such innovation. Inmates can now send messages to family members via a special device that looks like an unrefined cellphone. It costs 10 cents for each message and has a limit of 160 characters. The device is simple for loved ones who want to communicate with their incarcerated family members.

The devices, also referred to as chirping devices (or chirping devices) are not able to allow prisoners to download apps, take pictures or make calls via phone or internet or access the internet. Additionally, they aren't allowed to use stickers or Emojis. The device doesn't need any phone minutes or pre-approvals.

On the ConnectNetwork site, users are able to purchase credits to send messages. The prices for the messages vary by state and facility. Log into ConnectNetwork to view the current rates. Go to the messaging page of the person you want to reach.

Prisoners can respond to messages by sending an unwritten response or responding electronically. Corbot can also be used to purchase books. Corbot has an Amazon feature that allows inmates to search for books by title or author, and then find an all-text version of the book.

While the ability to text can be useful, it is important to keep in mind that federal prisoners are subject to strict security measures. Users of the service are advised to remain aware of their surroundings throughout the day and to not disclose any personal information, like the number of a phone or address to an inmate. They text inmate should also avoid prisoners who are not approved to participate in this program.