Federal Inmate Text Messaging

As technology filters into every aspect of our lives, prisons and jails are beginning to adopt new ways of communicating with family and friends. Inmate texting in the federal prison is one of these innovations. Inmates can send messages to their loved ones using a special device that looks like a dumbed down cellphone. The device costs 10 cents each message and the maximum characters limit is 160 characters. The device is easy to use for loved ones who wish to communicate with relatives who are in prison.

The devices, commonly known as chirping devices, don't allow inmates to take photographs or download apps to make phone calls or browse the web. Additionally, they aren't allowed to use stickers or Emojis. The device doesn't require any phone minutes or pre-approvals.

On the ConnectNetwork site, users can buy credits to send messages. The prices for the messages differ by state and facility. Log federal inmate text messages into ConnectNetwork to view the current rates. Go to the page for messaging of the person you would like to contact.

Prisoners can respond to messages by either sending back a handwritten response or by replying electronically. Corbot can be used to purchase books. Corbot's Amazon feature lets inmates search by author or title and then search for an all-text version.

It is crucial to keep in mind that federal prisoners are subject to strict security procedures. Those who use the service must be conscious of their surroundings and should not share any information that is personal like an address or phone number, with an inmate. They should also stay away from inmates who are not approved to participate in the program.