How to find out which inmate is calling you
I've been getting phone calls from an inmate and my only option is to hang up or to use my credit card information and add money to their account. Is there any way to find out who is calling me?
If you are receiving calls from an inmate and do not recognize who it is, there is no simple way to identify the caller on your own. Correctional phone systems are set up to protect inmate identity unless they choose to identify themselves during the call.
When you get a call, the system usually plays a recorded message stating it is from a correctional facility, but it does not always clearly name the inmate unless they record their name during setup.
The only reliable way to find out who is calling is to involve the facility:
- Contact the jail or prison where the call is coming from
- Provide them with your phone number and details about the calls
- Request that they identify or block the caller
All inmate calls are tracked and recorded by the facility, so staff can determine who is placing the calls if necessary.
If you do not want to receive the calls, you can simply decline them or ask the facility to block your number. If you do want to accept but stay cautious, do not provide any personal or financial information until you are sure who you are speaking with.
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Our advisors answer within 24 hours. Free, always. Former federal and state inmates with direct experience.