SCI Phoenix Phone Calls Through Securus

Step 1. Set Up a Securus Account

Create an account at securustech.net or by calling 800-844-6591. You’ll link a phone number that the inmate can call, and you can fund it through Securus directly or through JPay, which also handles PA DOC’s commissary deposits.

Step 2. Get Added to the Contact List

The inmate has to add your number to their approved contact list before calls can go through. This isn’t something the facility does at a family member’s request, so if calls aren’t connecting, confirm with the inmate that your number is on their list.

Step 3. Know How Rates Work

PA DOC doesn’t post a specific per-minute rate for Securus calls on its website. Rates can vary based on call type and whether it’s in-state or out-of-state, so check current pricing directly at securustech.net or by calling Securus customer service before assuming a cost.

Monitoring and Recording

Calls through Securus are recorded and can be monitored, with the standard exception of privileged calls to an attorney of record. Assume any non-legal call could be reviewed.

Email Through ViaPath/ConnectNetwork

Email messaging runs through a separate system, ViaPath Technologies (also called ConnectNetwork), reachable at 877-650-4249. It’s not bundled with phone minutes, you fund and manage it independently.

Blocking a Number

If you need to stop receiving calls from an inmate, contact Securus customer service directly to have a number blocked or removed from the call system.

Troubleshooting a Failed Call

If calls aren’t connecting, first confirm with the inmate that your number is on their approved contact list, since this is the most common reason a call won’t go through. Also check that your Securus account has funds and that you haven’t accidentally blocked the number yourself through your phone carrier.

Alternatives to a Phone Call

If a call isn’t possible, ViaPath/ConnectNetwork email is a faster way to stay in touch than mailed letters, and an in-person or video visit through PA DOC’s IVS system is another option for more regular contact.

Calls Getting Flagged as Spam

Correctional-facility numbers often get flagged as spam or “scam likely” on cell phones. Save the number in your contacts so it always rings through, or call your carrier and tell them it’s an authorized number you want to receive.

International Calls

International call availability and rates vary and aren’t published on PA DOC’s public pages. Ask Securus directly when you set up your account whether the country you need is supported and what it costs.

Blocking or Unblocking a Number

If you need to block or unblock a number on the account, that’s handled through Securus directly, either online through your account or by calling their support line. This is separate from PA DOC and the facility, they don’t manage call-blocking on your end.

If You Want to Stop Receiving Calls

You can close or restrict your Securus account at any time by contacting Securus directly, PA DOC doesn’t manage this on your end. If you’re getting calls you no longer want, ask Securus how to block the account rather than just ignoring the calls, since the inmate can otherwise keep trying.