Federal Inmate Text Messaging

Technology is a constant aspect of our lives, even prisons and jails are beginning to embrace new ways to communicate with family and friends. One of these innovations is federal inmate text messaging. Inmates can send messages to loved ones via a special device that resembles an ordinary cellphone. The device costs 10 cents for each message, and the maximum character limit is 160. The device is easy to use by loved ones who want to stay in touch with family members who are in prison.

The devices, commonly known as chirping devices, do not allow inmates to take photos or download apps to make phone calls or browse the web. They also can't use stickers or emojis. The device does not require any phone minutes or pre-approvals.

On the ConnectNetwork site, users can purchase credits to send messages. The cost of messages differ by state and facility. Sign in to 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 a handwritten response or by responding electronically. Corbot can be used to purchase books. Corbot comes with an Amazon feature that allows prisoners to search for books based on title or author, text inmate 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 be aware of their surroundings at all times and to not disclose any personal information, such as the number of a phone or address to a prisoner. It is also recommended to avoid prisoners who are not authorized to take part in this program.