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Phone & Messaging

When You Call or Receive a Call from Menard: Recognize the Number and Understand Phone Rules

Phone calls are often the fastest way to stay connected with someone at Menard—but strict rules apply. Here's how to recognize legitimate calls and avoid mistakes that could get your loved one written up.

• 2 min read • idoc.illinois.gov
When You Call or Receive a Call from Menard: Recognize the Number and Understand Phone Rules

Calls from Menard Correctional Center show up as (217) 512-7443 on caller ID. Save this number in your contacts so you can spot it immediately and won't miss a call - or accidentally answer something suspicious.

Three-way calls are strictly prohibited. Under IDOC rules, initiating or participating in a three-way call can result in disciplinary action for your loved one. If they ask you to "merge a call" or "add someone in," say no. Keep it one-on-one.

For electronic messages, friends and family can use ICSolutions' CorrLinks system to communicate with people in custody at IDOC facilities (except ATCs). Keep in mind: messages aren't private. All CorrLinks messages are screened and monitored, and IDOC may delay them for review. This can be frustrating, but it's how the system works. Expect some lag and plan accordingly.

When You Call or Receive a Call from Menard: Recognize the Number and Understand Phone Rules

Safety Tips

  • ✓ Save (217) 512-7443 as “Menard Correctional Center” (or a similar label) so you can recognize legitimate calls quickly.
  • ✓ If you use call filtering or a spam blocker, double-check that (217) 512-7443 isn’t being silenced or sent to voicemail.
  • ✓ Don’t help facilitate a three-way call. If someone asks you to merge calls or add another person, end that idea before it turns into a rule violation.
  • ✓ Keep your phone-account logins and PINs to yourself. Even with good intentions, shared passwords and access can create problems fast.
  • ✓ Treat CorrLinks messages as monitored communication - because they are screened and monitored.
  • ✓ Expect delays. IDOC may hold outgoing or incoming electronic messages for review.
  • ✓ Don’t send sensitive account details (like passwords) in messages.

Watch for scams: If someone pressures you to pay through an unfamiliar third party or asks for your login credentials "to help with phone or messaging," stop. Verify before you send money or share access.

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