Federal Inmate Text Messaging

As technology filters into every part of our lives, prisons and jails inmate SMS messaging are beginning to explore new ways to communicate with family and friends. Inmate texting in the federal prison is a great example of this. Inmates can send messages to loved ones using a special device that looks like an ordinary cellphone. It costs 10 cents per message and has a 160-character limit. The device is easy to use for family members who wish to communicate with incarcerated relatives.

The devices, commonly called chirping devices, don't allow inmates to take photos or download apps to make phone calls or browse the internet. They also can't use stickers or emojis. The device doesn't need pre-approval or phone minutes.

On the ConnectNetwork site, users can buy credits to send messages. Prices for messages vary depending on the state and facility. To view the current rates, log in to ConnectNetwork and then go to the messaging page for the person in custody you would like to communicate with.

Inmates can respond to the messages by sending with a handwritten reply or responding electronically. They can also use the device to buy books. Corbot also has an Amazon feature that allows prisoners to search for books by title or author, and then find an all-text version of the book.

While the capability to text is helpful but it is important to remember that federal inmates are subject to strict security measures. Users of the service are advised to stay aware of their surroundings at all times and to not divulge any personal information, including the number of a phone or address to a prisoner. They should also stay away from inmates who are not approved to participate in the program.