Phone calls, video visits, and messaging: accounts and provider transition
For CDCR state prisons, Securus is the communications provider. You can set up a Securus account through the website or mobile app so you're ready as services roll out. Securus says you don't need an online account to receive free telephone calls, but you will need one when videoconferencing and electronic messaging become available.
Seeing more than one platform mentioned? That's because CDCR is in the middle of a provider transition. CDCR has an interim agreement with ViaPath to avoid service interruptions while the switch to Securus is completed. During the transition, people will keep using ViaPath until their institution switches over. Families may need to change platforms if their loved one transfers to a different institution.
Note: Securus states that starting in September, telephone calls, video calls, and electronic messages will be implemented.
Common Questions
Q
Do I need a Securus account to receive phone calls?
No, Securus says you do not need an online account to receive free telephone calls. You will need an account when videoconferencing and electronic messaging are available, so it can still be smart to set one up ahead of time.
Q
Why do I see different communications platforms for the same prison?
CDCR says it is transitioning providers, with an interim agreement with ViaPath to avoid service interruptions while the move to Securus is completed. During that transition, CDCR notes that families may need to use ViaPath until a specific institution transitions, then switch to Securus once it does.
Q
Is the GTL visitation site available in Spanish?
Yes. The CDCR GTL visitation portal includes a language option for Español. The portal also includes links for its Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
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