What Families Should Know About Inmate Computer and Internet Access (Pennsylvania DOC policies)
Computer and internet access in Pennsylvania state prisons isn't open access — it's a supervised privilege tied to specific, approved goals. Understanding what's allowed, what's off-limits, and what happens after a violation can help your loved one protect that privilege and use it to prepare for reentry.
Under Pennsylvania DOC policy, inmates and reentrants may get supervised access to Department-supplied technology - including hardware, software, and sometimes internet access - for specific, constructive activities. This typically means using computers or kiosks for assigned employment tasks, treatment participation, and educational or career development work. The same supervised access can support reentry-focused tasks like job searches and resume writing, plus approved library activities. The takeaway for families: access is designed to support progress and preparation. It stays a privilege because it happens under staff supervision within defined limits.
The flip side of "authorized access"? A lot of everyday online behavior is explicitly off-limits on Department IT systems. Inmates and reentrants cannot use Department technology to access unauthorized websites or applications - including streaming services, social media, messaging services, chat rooms, email applications, and games. Even if something feels harmless or routine outside, it can still count as an unauthorized service inside. That's where people get into trouble. If your loved one isn't sure whether something is approved, the safest move is sticking to assigned work and programs the Department has clearly authorized.
Zero-tolerance area: Uploading or introducing malware, viruses, or any kind of malicious code into Department computer or software systems is prohibited and treated as a serious security issue.
Violations don't just result in a warning. Breaking the technology rules can lead to immediate removal or restriction from system access - and it may mean losing access permanently. A violation can also trigger disciplinary action and affect day-to-day opportunities inside, including removal from employment or educational assignments. In the most serious cases, misuse of Department IT may lead to criminal prosecution.
Financial responsibility: If an inmate or reentrant intentionally or negligently causes losses, costs, or damages to DOC information technology systems, the policy says they are responsible for compensating the Department.
Family Support
- ✓ Encourage your loved one to use supervised technology access for approved goals like education, treatment, career development, and reentry work.
- ✓ Keep the focus on practical reentry tasks the policy names, such as employment searches and resume writing.
- ✓ Remind them that access is supervised and authorized for specific activities - staying in those lanes helps protect the privilege.
- ✓ If they’re frustrated by restrictions, steer the conversation back to what the access can do (progress on assignments, programs, and preparation) instead of trying to “work around” the rules.
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