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Ask to speak to the inmate counselor or the department that manages inmate phone privileges.
Tap (top right) or swipe left on the number to select Unblock . Android Users : Open the Phone app and tap the three-dot menu (top right). Go to Settings > Blocked numbers (or Call block settings ).
If your personal cell phone number cannot be unblocked due to strict local carrier routing issues, consider these legal alternatives to maintain communication: Set Up a Dedicated Remote Number
in noisy environments. Loud background noise or echoing can confuse the automated system into flagging a third-party interaction.
Internet-based phone services (like Google Voice, Skype, or Vonage) are frequently blocked by prison phone networks to prevent inmates from contacting unauthorized individuals through untraceable numbers. 4. Direct Institutional Blocks how to unblock a prison call
If you accidentally blocked the number on your phone, you can usually reverse this in your settings: Android Devices : Open the (three dots) > Blocked numbers . Find the facility's number and tap the or minus button to unblock. iPhone Devices Blocked Contacts . Swipe left on the number and tap Google Voice : If you use Google Voice , go to the
Prepaid accounts are the most reliable way to receive prison calls. They bypass many of the limitations of collect calls (such as carrier restrictions and monthly billing limits) and give you direct control over your account balance.
Ask your loved one during a visit or via mail to check their approved telephone list. Verify that your number was written down correctly, including the area code.
Contact your phone service provider and request that they remove the facility’s phone number from any spam or block lists. Provide them with the specific phone number that appears when the incarcerated person calls. For example, Essex County Correctional Facility has publicly requested that families contact their carriers to whitelist the number 862‑294‑0030. Ask to speak to the inmate counselor or
GTL calls are managed through the GTL website or their mobile app. Log in to your GTL account.
Prison administrators can manually block numbers if they suspect the line is being used to coordinate illegal activity, harass individuals, or bypass facility rules. 2. Step-by-Step Solutions to Unblock Prison Calls
Understanding why a prison call is blocked is the first step toward fixing it. This comprehensive guide covers the technical, financial, and administrative reasons behind blocked prison calls and provides actionable steps to restore your connection. Phase 1: Identify the Cause of the Block
Step 4: Verify with Your Mobile CarrierContact your cell phone provider’s customer service. Ask them to ensure that "Collect Calling" or "Third-Party Billing" is not restricted on your account. Some "Scam Shield" or "Spam Block" apps on smartphones mistakenly flag prison calls as junk mail; try whitelisting the facility's specific outgoing number. Go to Settings > Blocked numbers (or Call block settings )
Step 2: Contact the Service Provider DirectlyIf your balance is fine but calls aren't coming through, you must speak with the phone company’s customer service. GTL/ConnectNetwork: 1-877-650-4249 Securus Technologies: 1-800-844-6591
Step 3: Remove "Call Waiting" and "Three-Way Calling"If your number was blocked due to suspected "interruption," it is likely because of your phone's features. To prevent future blocks:
By staying proactive and managing your account settings, you can ensure that the line of communication stays open when your loved one needs it most.