Federal Inmate Text Messaging

As technology is becoming a regular part of our lives, prisons and jails have begun to explore new ways of communicating with family and friends. Federal inmate texting is one of these innovations. Inmates can send messages to their loved ones using a specific device that looks like an unrefined cellphone. It costs 10 cents per message and has a limit of 160 characters. The device is easy to use for loved ones who wish to communicate with relatives who are in prison.

The devices, also called chirping devices, do not permit inmates to take pictures or download apps, make phone calls or browse the internet. Also, they can't use stickers or Emojis. The device does not require any phone minutes or pre-approvals.

On the ConnectNetwork site, users are able to buy credits to send messages. Prices for messages differ by state and facility. Log in to ConnectNetwork to see the current rates. Go to the messaging page of the person you wish to reach.

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

It is important to keep in mind that federal prisoners are subject to strict security procedures. Users of the service are advised to stay aware of their surroundings at all times and not give out any personal information, like the number of a phone or address, to contactmeasap.com an inmate. It is also recommended to avoid inmates who have not been accepted to be part of this program.