What ViaPath Records When You Call or Video Chat: Privacy & Payment Facts for Families
Using ViaPath/Telmate to call or video chat with someone who's incarcerated? Here's what you should know about recordings, personal data collection, and payment details—the privacy facts families ask about most.
ViaPath/Telmate records and stores all communications - phone calls and video chats alike. These recordings can capture your voice and your image on video. If you're sharing sensitive information, assume it could be preserved. Make choices accordingly.
As a friend or family member, you may be asked to provide information identifying the incarcerated person. This typically happens when sending funds or setting up communications. If you're managing accounts for multiple people, the details you provide help the system identify who receives the funds or connects to the call.
Payment Identity Requirements
- ✓ Your driver’s license number
- ✓ The last four digits of your Social Security number
ViaPath/Telmate may collect your phone's location for up to 60 minutes after a call ends. To opt out of this post-call location tracking, call 1-800-483-8314.
For privacy questions, contact ViaPath/Telmate at privacyrights@viapath.com or by mail: c/o ViaPath Technologies, 3120 Fairview Park Drive, Suite 300, Falls Church, VA 22042, Attn: Legal Department. The service isn't intended for anyone under 18 (though ViaPath does provide certain services to incarcerated youth). Children under 13 should not provide personal information through the platform.
Tip: These are provider-level privacy and payment statements, not a promise about how every jail uses the system. If you’re calling or video chatting with someone connected to Buffalo County Jail, confirm locally whether communications are recorded and what ID details you’ll be asked for when you pay.
Find an Inmate at Buffalo County Jail, NE
Search for a loved one and send messages and photos in minutes.
