Cheap Prison Calls:
Virtual Landlines For Prison Calls

Staying connected with loved ones while serving a prison sentence can be emotionally challenging, especially when faced with high phone call costs. In recent years, one solution that has emerged to ease this burden is the use of virtual landlines. But what exactly are they, and how do they work within the context of prison communication? Are they legal, and what are the potential pros and cons? This article will explore these questions in depth.

What is a virtual landline?

A virtual landline is a telephone number that isn’t tied to a physical location or landline phone. Instead, it operates over the internet, allowing calls to be routed to any mobile device, landline, or other virtual number, depending on the user's preference. Essentially, a virtual landline offers the benefits of a traditional landline phone without the need for a physical telephone system or geographic limitations.

The key difference between a virtual and traditional landline is that with a virtual number, you can choose a specific area code, giving the impression that you are calling from a particular location—even if you are not physically there. This feature has made virtual landlines an attractive option for various business and personal uses, including prison communication.

Are virtual landlines legal and allowed in prisons?

A virtual landline is a telephone number that isn’t tied to a physical location or landline phone. Instead, it operates over the internet, allowing calls to be routed to any mobile device, landline, or other virtual number, depending on the user's preference. Essentially, a virtual landline offers the benefits of a traditional landline phone without the need for a physical telephone system or geographic limitations.

The key difference between a virtual and traditional landline is that with a virtual number, you can choose a specific area code, giving the impression that you are calling from a particular location—even if you are not physically there. This feature has made virtual landlines an attractive option for various business and personal uses, including prison communication.

How do virtual landlines work?

Virtual landlines operate using Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology, which allows voice communications to travel over the internet rather than through traditional phone lines. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how a virtual landline typically works for prison calls:

Set Up the Virtual Number:
A family member or friend on the outside sets up a virtual landline by choosing a provider. These services often allow you to select an area code, which can help reduce the costs of calls made from the prison.

Assign the Number to a Device:
The virtual number is linked to a mobile phone, home landline, or even another virtual number. The recipient can choose which device the calls will be routed to, making it flexible for receiving calls from the prisoner.

Prisoner Makes the Call:
In most prisons, inmates are given a set list of approved numbers they can call. Once the virtual landline number is added to this list, the inmate can dial the virtual number just like they would any regular landline.

Cost Savings:
Virtual landlines are often used because they can reduce the per-minute cost of prison phone calls. In many cases, prisons charge less for calls made to local landlines than for mobile or long-distance calls. By choosing a virtual number with a local area code, the inmate’s family or friends can avoid the higher costs associated with long-distance calls.

Call Monitoring:
All inmate phone calls are typically monitored, regardless of whether they are made to a traditional or virtual landline. Therefore, the prison’s security system will still have access to the call logs and recordings.

Pros of using a virtual landlines

Virtual landlines offer several advantages, particularly for families of inmates who may be struggling with the high costs of prison communication. Here are some of the most notable benefits:

Cost Efficiency:
One of the primary reasons people choose virtual landlines is to save on the costs of prison calls. By using a local virtual number, families can reduce the expenses associated with calling long-distance or mobile numbers.

Flexibility:
Virtual landlines can route calls to almost any device, giving family members more options for how and where they receive calls. This can be particularly useful if the person receiving the calls moves frequently or prefers to use a mobile phone instead of a traditional landline.

Ease of Setup:
Setting up a virtual landline is usually straightforward and can often be done online in just a few minutes. There’s no need for complex installations or physical phone lines.

Accessibility:
Virtual numbers make it easier for inmates to stay in touch with loved ones who live far away. By setting up a local number, families can ensure that inmates can reach them more easily without worrying about exorbitant call charges.

Call Routing Options:
With a virtual landline, the recipient can choose to route calls to different devices depending on availability. This makes it more convenient to manage incoming calls from the prison.

Cons of using a virtual landline

Despite the benefits, there are some potential drawbacks to consider when using a virtual landline for prison communication:

Potential Rule Violations:
Some prisons may see the use of virtual landlines as a security risk, especially if they believe the number is being used to obscure the recipient’s true identity or location. This could lead to restrictions on phone privileges for the inmate.

Monitoring Issues:
While calls made to virtual landlines are still monitored, the prison may not be able to verify the recipient’s location, which could raise concerns about illicit communication. This could prompt more scrutiny of the inmate’s phone calls.

Technical Issues:
Virtual landlines rely on the internet to function, so if there are connectivity issues on the recipient’s end, calls could be dropped or delayed. This could be frustrating for both the inmate and the family member trying to stay in touch.

Legal Gray Area:
While virtual landlines are not illegal, the use of them in prison contexts could raise questions. Some prison systems may be wary of this technology and its potential to bypass certain rules or restrictions.

Setup and Maintenance Costs:
Although virtual landlines can save money on per-minute call costs, there may be setup or subscription fees associated with the service. These fees can vary depending on the provider, so it’s essential to compare different options before committing.

Are virtual landlines right for prison calls?

Given the pros and cons outlined above, whether a virtual landline is the right solution for prison communication depends on your individual circumstances. If you are dealing with high costs from traditional prison phone calls, a virtual landline could be a game-changer, helping you stay connected with your loved one without breaking the bank. However, it’s essential to understand the prison’s policies on phone communication to ensure you don’t inadvertently violate any rules.

It’s also worth exploring other options that prisons may offer for reducing phone call costs. Some prisons have introduced VoIP systems of their own or have contracts with telecommunication providers that offer lower rates for inmate calls. Always check with the specific prison facility to see what options are available.

Virtual landlines offer a flexible, cost-effective solution for maintaining communication with inmates, especially when traditional phone lines prove expensive. They provide significant advantages, particularly for those looking to reduce the financial burden of staying in touch with loved ones in prison. However, it's important to weigh the potential risks and ensure that the prison’s communication policies are not violated in the process.

By understanding how virtual landlines work and carefully considering the pros and cons, families of inmates can make an informed decision that best suits their needs. Staying connected with a loved one during their time in prison is invaluable, and technologies like virtual landlines can help make that connection more affordable and accessible.