Federal Inmate Text Messaging

Even jails and prisons are embracing new ways of communicating because technology is a component of our everyday lives. Federal inmate texting is one of these innovations. Inmates can send messages to family members using a device that resembles a dumbed-down cellphone. The device costs 10 cents for each message and the maximum characters limit is 160. Using the device is easy for family members who wish to contact their detained family members.

The devices, also called chirping devices, do not allow inmates to take photographs or download apps call calls, or search the internet. Also, they can't use stickers or emojis. The device doesn't need pre-approval or phone minutes.

On the ConnectNetwork site, users are able to buy credits to send messages. The prices for the messages are based on the state and facility. Sign 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 back a handwritten response or by responding electronically. Corbot can also be used to buy books. Corbot's Amazon feature allows prisoners to search by title or author and then look up an all-text version.

While the capability to text is useful but it is important to keep in mind that federal inmates 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, such as an address or phone number, to an inmate. They should also stay away from any inmates who are not approved to participate in federal inmate text messages the program.