How to Keep Your Communication Private and Secure (Protecting Your Info)

Important note

Correctional communication rules, approved services, fees, schedules, and mail procedures vary by facility and can change. Confirm current requirements directly with the facility or its official communication provider before sending money, mail, photographs, or gifts. Unchained Connections is a public pen-pal directory; it is not a correctional agency, legal or medical service, or messaging provider, and it cannot guarantee that a service is available or that a message will be delivered.

In the digital age, maintaining the privacy and security of your communications is more crucial than ever. The following advice can help you safeguard your data:

🔐 How to Keep Your Communication Private and Secure

1. Use End-to-End Encrypted Messaging Apps

Choose apps that offer end-to-end encryption (E2EE), meaning only you and the person you’re communicating with can read the messages.

Recommended Apps:

Signal (highly secure, open-source)

WhatsApp (E2EE by default, owned by Meta)

iMessage (iOS devices only)

⚠️ Avoid SMS or unencrypted email for sensitive info.

1. Secure Your Devices

Your security is only as strong as your weakest device.

Use strong passwords (or passphrases)

Enable biometric locks (fingerprint, face ID)

Turn on device encryption (available in most settings)

Keep your software updated (to patch vulnerabilities)

1. Be Cautious on Public Wi-Fi

Public networks can be traps for hackers.

Avoid logging into sensitive accounts on public Wi-Fi

Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to encrypt your connection

1. Watch for Phishing and Social Engineering

Scammers try to trick you into giving away info.

Don’t click suspicious links or download unknown attachments

Verify identities before sharing sensitive info

Be skeptical of urgency tactics (e.g., “Your account will be locked!”)

1. Secure Your Email

Email is often a target for hackers.

Use two-factor authentication (2FA) on your email account

Consider secure email providers like ProtonMail or Tutanota

Don’t reuse email passwords for other services

1. Control What You Share

Think before you post or share sensitive info.

Limit personal details shared on social media

Use aliases or pseudonyms when appropriate

Turn off metadata (like location info) from photos or files

1. Use Strong, Unique Passwords

Reusing passwords across platforms is risky.

Use a password manager like Bitwarden, 1Password, or LastPass

Create complex passwords (longer is better)

Change passwords if a breach occurs

1. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) Everywhere

Adds a second layer of protection beyond your password.

Use app-based 2FA (like Authy or Google Authenticator) instead of SMS when possible

1. Consider Secure Calling and Video Apps

Voice and video can be intercepted too.

Use Signal or FaceTime for secure calls

Avoid regular phone calls for sensitive topics

1. Regularly Audit Your Digital Footprint

Stay aware of what’s out there.

Google yourself to see what info is public

Review app permissions regularly

Remove old accounts and unused apps

Want this turned into a shareable checklist, infographic, or printable guide?

Official guidance

• Federal Bureau of Prisons: Communication with people in custody
• Federal Bureau of Prisons: Facility directory
• For state and local facilities, use the correctional agency’s official website and the facility’s current instructions.

This article is general information, not legal, medical, financial, or professional advice.