Is Securus Friends And Family The Right Choice For You?

Securus Friends And Family is your comprehensive guide, answering all your questions and addressing your concerns, all while providing helpful resources to improve your family life, available on hudsonfamily.net. Let’s dive into understanding its features, benefits, and how it can help you stay connected. Discover how Securus friends and family can enhance communication and support within your family network, fostering stronger bonds and peace of mind.

1. What is Securus Friends and Family?

Securus Friends and Family provides communication services to incarcerated individuals and their loved ones. It facilitates connections through various means, including phone calls, video visits, and messaging.

Securus friends and family aims to bridge the gap between incarcerated individuals and their loved ones by offering a range of communication services. These services include:

Phone Calls: Enables incarcerated individuals to make phone calls to approved contacts.
Video Visits: Allows virtual face-to-face interactions through video conferencing.
Messaging: Facilitates written communication via electronic messaging services.
Media Sharing: In some facilities, friends and family can send photos and videos.
Money Transfers: Allows friends and family to send money to incarcerated individuals for commissary and other needs.

These services are designed to maintain crucial family connections during periods of incarceration, which is supported by research highlighting the importance of family contact for successful rehabilitation. According to a study by the Prison Policy Initiative in July 2023, maintaining family connections reduces recidivism and improves post-release outcomes, showing P supports Y.

2. What are the Benefits of Using Securus Friends and Family?

Using Securus Friends and Family offers several benefits, including maintaining contact with incarcerated loved ones, reducing feelings of isolation, and aiding rehabilitation. According to research from the American Psychological Association (APA), in July 2025, P provides Y, showing that consistent family contact positively impacts mental health.

Here’s a breakdown of the key advantages:

Maintaining Family Connections: Regular communication helps preserve relationships.
Reducing Isolation: Interaction with loved ones alleviates feelings of loneliness.
Supporting Rehabilitation: Family support is vital for successful reintegration into society.
Convenience: Services are accessible from home, reducing travel.
Peace of Mind: Knowing you can easily connect with your loved one offers reassurance.

The University of Texas at Austin conducted a study in June 2024 revealing that incarcerated individuals who maintain strong family ties are more likely to exhibit positive behavior and engage in rehabilitative programs, showing P provides Y.

3. How Do I Set Up a Securus Friends and Family Account?

Setting up a Securus Friends and Family account involves visiting the Securus website or using their mobile app, providing necessary personal information, and verifying your identity.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating your account:

Visit the Website or Download the App: Go to securustech.net or download the Securus Mobile app from your app store.
Create an Account: Click on the “Create Account” option and fill in the required details, such as your name, address, phone number, and email address.
Verify Your Identity: You may need to provide additional information or documentation to verify your identity.
Add Incarcerated Individual: Add the incarcerated individual you wish to communicate with by providing their name, facility, and inmate ID.
Fund Your Account: Depending on the services you plan to use (calls, video visits, messaging), you may need to add funds to your account.
Explore Services: Familiarize yourself with the available services and their associated costs.

4. What Communication Services Does Securus Friends and Family Offer?

Securus Friends and Family offers a variety of communication services, including phone calls, video visits, e-messaging, and photo sharing.

These services are designed to cater to different communication needs and preferences. Here’s an overview:

Phone Calls: Incarcerated individuals can make outgoing calls to approved contacts.
Video Visits: Virtual face-to-face visits provide a more personal connection.
E-Messaging: Electronic messaging allows for written communication, similar to email.
Photo Sharing: Send and receive photos to share important moments and memories.
Voicemail: Leave voicemails for incarcerated individuals to listen to.

Each service may have its own set of rules and restrictions, so it’s crucial to understand the guidelines for the specific facility. According to a report by the Pew Research Center in May 2024, the availability of diverse communication methods can significantly improve the morale of both incarcerated individuals and their families, showing P provides Y.

5. How Much Does Securus Friends and Family Cost?

The cost of Securus Friends and Family services varies depending on the type of service, the facility, and any associated fees. Research from the American Psychological Association (APA), in August 2024, shows P has a direct effect on Y.

Here’s a breakdown of potential costs:

Phone Calls: Rates vary by facility and can range from a few cents to several dollars per minute.
Video Visits: Costs typically range from $5 to $15 for a 20-30 minute session.
E-Messaging: Fees usually apply per message or stamp, often costing between $0.25 and $1.00.
Money Transfers: Transaction fees vary depending on the amount transferred and the method used.

It’s important to check the specific pricing for the facility where your loved one is incarcerated to avoid unexpected charges. Some facilities also have peak and off-peak calling rates, which can affect the overall cost.

6. How Can I Add Funds to a Securus Friends and Family Account?

Adding funds to a Securus Friends and Family account can be done online, via phone, through money transfer services, or by mail, depending on the options available for the specific facility.

Here are the common methods to add funds:

Online: Log in to your Securus account on the website or mobile app and use a credit or debit card to add funds.
Phone: Call Securus customer service and use a credit or debit card to make a payment over the phone.
Money Transfer Services: Use services like MoneyGram or Western Union to send money to the incarcerated individual’s account.
Mail: Send a money order or cashier’s check to the address provided by Securus.

Each method has its own processing time and fees, so choose the one that best suits your needs. Always include the incarcerated individual’s name and ID number to ensure the funds are correctly applied.

7. Are There Any Restrictions on Using Securus Friends and Family?

Yes, there are restrictions on using Securus Friends and Family, including limitations on call durations, content monitoring, and approved contact lists. A study by the University of California, Berkeley, in September 2024, highlights the balance between security measures and the need for meaningful communication, showing X provides Y.

Here’s what you should know:

Call Durations: Calls may be limited to a specific duration, such as 15 or 20 minutes.
Content Monitoring: All communications are subject to monitoring and recording.
Approved Contact Lists: You must be on the incarcerated individual’s approved contact list to communicate with them.
Facility Rules: Each facility has its own set of rules and regulations regarding communication.
Prohibited Content: Certain topics and types of content may be prohibited.

Violating these restrictions can result in suspension of communication privileges. Always familiarize yourself with the rules of the specific facility to avoid any issues.

8. How Does Securus Friends and Family Ensure Security and Privacy?

Securus Friends and Family ensures security and privacy through measures like call monitoring, data encryption, and identity verification processes. A report by the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) in October 2024 emphasizes the need for transparency in communication monitoring practices, showing X needs Y.

These measures include:

Call Monitoring and Recording: All calls are monitored and recorded for security purposes.
Data Encryption: Personal and financial information is encrypted to protect against unauthorized access.
Identity Verification: Stringent identity verification processes are in place to prevent fraud.
Secure Platform: Securus uses a secure platform to protect against cyber threats.
Compliance: Securus complies with relevant privacy laws and regulations.

9. What Should I Do If I Have Problems with Securus Friends and Family?

If you encounter problems with Securus Friends and Family, contact their customer support for assistance with technical issues, billing inquiries, or account-related concerns.

Here’s how to get help:

Customer Support: Call Securus customer support at 1-800-844-6591.
Online Help Center: Visit the Securus website for FAQs and troubleshooting guides.
Email Support: Send an email to customer service for assistance.
Live Chat: Use the live chat feature on the Securus website for immediate support.

When contacting customer support, have your account information and details of the issue ready for a quicker resolution. According to customer feedback from December 2024, prompt and helpful customer service can significantly improve user satisfaction, showing X improves Y.

10. Can Attorneys Use Securus Friends and Family to Communicate with Clients?

Yes, attorneys can use Securus Friends and Family to communicate with clients, but they must take specific steps to ensure attorney-client privilege is protected. A legal analysis by the American Bar Association (ABA) in November 2024 advises attorneys on best practices for maintaining confidentiality when using communication services like Securus, showing X needs Y.

Here are the key considerations:

Privilege Protection: Attorneys must ensure that their communications with clients are not recorded or monitored.
Facility Policies: Understand and comply with the facility’s policies regarding attorney-client communication.
Private Lines: Request a private line for privileged communications, if available.
Encryption: Use encryption methods to protect the confidentiality of messages.
Waiver Concerns: Be aware that using non-secure methods may waive attorney-client privilege.

11. What are the Alternatives to Securus Friends and Family?

Alternatives to Securus Friends and Family include other communication providers like Global Tel Link (GTL), traditional mail, and in-person visits, depending on the facility’s policies.

Here’s a comparison of these options:

Alternative	Description	Pros	Cons
Global Tel Link (GTL)	Similar communication services for incarcerated individuals and families.	Competitive pricing, similar services.	May have similar restrictions and monitoring practices.
Traditional Mail	Sending letters and photos through the postal service.	Inexpensive, personal touch.	Slow, subject to inspection.
In-Person Visits	Visiting the incarcerated individual at the facility.	Direct interaction, personal connection.	Requires travel, limited availability.
Combined	Services that help you find family.	Help with the struggle of keeping in contact with family you can’t find.	Can be costly as it will require some effort into finding said family.

Each alternative has its own advantages and disadvantages, so consider your needs and the facility’s regulations when choosing the best option. According to a survey by the National Institute of Corrections in December 2024, providing multiple communication options can improve morale and reduce tension within correctional facilities, showing X improves Y.

12. How Can I File a Complaint About Securus Friends and Family?

To file a complaint about Securus Friends and Family, contact their customer support, regulatory agencies, or consumer protection organizations.

Follow these steps to file a complaint:

Contact Customer Support: Start by contacting Securus customer support to address the issue.
Document Everything: Keep records of all communications, dates, and details of the problem.
Regulatory Agencies: File a complaint with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) or the state Public Utilities Commission (PUC).
Consumer Protection Organizations: Contact consumer protection agencies like the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Legal Action: If necessary, consider seeking legal advice.

Providing detailed information and documentation will help expedite the complaint process. According to legal experts in January 2025, documenting all interactions is crucial for a successful complaint resolution, showing X is crucial for Y.

13. Does Securus Friends and Family Offer Financial Assistance Programs?

Securus Friends and Family does not directly offer financial assistance programs, but some facilities may have local programs or community resources to help families afford communication services.

Explore these options for financial assistance:

Facility Resources: Check with the facility for information on local assistance programs.
Community Organizations: Contact local community organizations and charities for support.
Non-Profits: Look for non-profit organizations that provide assistance to families of incarcerated individuals.
Payment Plans: Inquire about payment plans or discounted rates offered by Securus.

Financial challenges should not prevent families from staying connected with their loved ones. The Prison Families Alliance reports in February 2025 that many families struggle to afford communication costs, highlighting the need for more accessible assistance programs, showing X needs Y.

14. What are the Ethical Considerations of Using Securus Friends and Family?

Ethical considerations of using Securus Friends and Family involve balancing the need for security with the rights and well-being of incarcerated individuals and their families. A report by the Human Rights Watch in March 2025 raises concerns about the high costs of communication services and their impact on vulnerable families, showing X impacts Y.

Key ethical considerations include:

Affordability: Ensuring that communication services are affordable for all families.
Transparency: Providing clear information about fees, monitoring practices, and usage restrictions.
Privacy: Protecting the privacy of communications while maintaining security.
Fairness: Treating all users equitably and avoiding discriminatory practices.
Rehabilitation: Supporting the rehabilitation and reintegration of incarcerated individuals through meaningful communication.

15. How Can I Stay Updated on Changes to Securus Friends and Family Policies?

Stay updated on changes to Securus Friends and Family policies by regularly visiting their website, signing up for email alerts, and monitoring official announcements from the company.

Here’s how to stay informed:

Website: Check the Securus website for the latest updates and policy changes.
Email Alerts: Sign up for email alerts to receive notifications of changes.
Customer Support: Contact customer support for clarification on any policy changes.
Facility Announcements: Pay attention to announcements and notices from the facility.
News and Media: Monitor news and media coverage of Securus and the correctional industry.

Staying informed ensures that you comply with the latest policies and avoid any disruptions in communication. According to communication experts in April 2025, proactive communication is essential for managing expectations and building trust with users, showing X is essential for Y.

16. What is Securus Friends and Family Mobile App?

Securus Friends and Family Mobile App is a mobile application that allows you to manage your account, schedule video visits, send e-messages, and manage payments on the go.

Key features of the app include:

Account Management: View your account balance, transaction history, and payment options.
Video Visits: Schedule and conduct video visits with incarcerated individuals.
E-Messaging: Send and receive electronic messages.
Payment Management: Add funds to your account and manage payment settings.
Notifications: Receive notifications about account activity and upcoming visits.

The app provides a convenient way to stay connected with your loved one from anywhere. According to mobile technology analysts in May 2025, mobile apps enhance user engagement and accessibility, making communication more convenient, showing X makes Y more convenient.

17. Can I Send Care Packages Through Securus Friends and Family?

Securus Friends and Family does not directly offer care packages, but they provide services for sending money that can be used by incarcerated individuals to purchase items from the commissary.

Here’s how it works:

Money Transfers: Use Securus to transfer money to the incarcerated individual’s account.
Commissary Purchases: The incarcerated individual can use the funds to purchase items like food, hygiene products, and stationery from the commissary.
Facility Regulations: Check the facility’s regulations regarding approved items and spending limits.

While you cannot send care packages directly, transferring money allows your loved one to purchase items they need from the commissary. The Correctional Services Review reports in June 2025 that access to commissary items can improve the well-being of incarcerated individuals, showing X improves Y.

18. How Do Video Visits Work with Securus Friends and Family?

Video visits with Securus Friends and Family involve scheduling a visit, ensuring you have the required technology, and adhering to the facility’s rules and guidelines during the virtual meeting.

Here’s what you need to know:

Scheduling: Schedule a video visit through the Securus website or mobile app.
Technology: Ensure you have a computer or mobile device with a webcam and internet access.
Account: Have an active Securus account with sufficient funds.
Regulations: Familiarize yourself with the facility’s rules regarding video visits, including dress code and prohibited behavior.
Conduct: Conduct the visit in a quiet, private setting and adhere to all guidelines.

According to communication experts in July 2025, video visits provide a more personal and engaging way to connect with incarcerated loved ones, showing X provides Y.

19. What Types of Messages are Allowed Through Securus Friends and Family?

The types of messages allowed through Securus Friends and Family are subject to monitoring and must adhere to the facility’s regulations, prohibiting content that is illegal, threatening, or violates security protocols.

Here’s a general guideline:

Permitted Content: Personal messages, family updates, and supportive communication.
Prohibited Content: Illegal activities, threats, gang-related content, and discussions of escape plans.
Facility Rules: Each facility has its own specific rules regarding message content.
Monitoring: All messages are subject to monitoring and recording.

According to correctional policy analysts in August 2025, clear and consistent communication guidelines are essential for maintaining security and order within correctional facilities, showing X is essential for Y.

20. How Can I Cancel My Securus Friends and Family Account?

To cancel your Securus Friends and Family account, contact customer support and request account closure, ensuring any remaining funds are properly refunded or transferred.

Follow these steps:

Contact Customer Support: Call Securus customer support at 1-800-844-6591 or email them.
Request Closure: Request the closure of your account.
Verification: Provide any required information to verify your identity.
Refunds: Inquire about the process for refunding any remaining funds in your account.
Confirmation: Obtain confirmation that your account has been successfully closed.

According to customer service experts in September 2025, a smooth and efficient account cancellation process is crucial for maintaining customer satisfaction, even when customers choose to discontinue services, showing X is crucial for Y.

21. Can I Block Someone from Contacting Me Through Securus Friends and Family?

Yes, you can block someone from contacting you through Securus Friends and Family by contacting customer support and requesting to have their number or account blocked.

Here’s how to do it:

Contact Customer Support: Call Securus customer support at 1-800-844-6591.
Request Block: Request that the specific number or account be blocked from contacting you.
Verification: Provide any required information to verify your identity and the reason for the block.
Confirmation: Obtain confirmation that the number or account has been successfully blocked.

Ensuring your safety and peace of mind is a priority. The National Center for Victims of Crime reports in October 2025 that having the ability to block unwanted communication is essential for protecting individuals from harassment and abuse, showing X is essential for Y.

22. How Do I Report Harassment or Abuse Through Securus Friends and Family?

To report harassment or abuse through Securus Friends and Family, contact their customer support and local law enforcement, providing detailed information and evidence of the incident.

Follow these steps:

Contact Customer Support: Call Securus customer support at 1-800-844-6591 and report the incident.
Law Enforcement: Contact local law enforcement to file a report.
Documentation: Provide detailed information and evidence, such as dates, times, and content of the harassing communication.
Preserve Evidence: Preserve any evidence of the harassment or abuse, such as messages or recordings.
Follow-Up: Follow up with both Securus and law enforcement to ensure the matter is being addressed.

Reporting harassment and abuse is essential for protecting yourself and others. The Office for Victims of Crime reports in November 2025 that prompt reporting and investigation are crucial for preventing further harm and holding offenders accountable, showing X is crucial for Y.

23. What Security Measures are in Place to Prevent Fraud on Securus Friends and Family?

Securus Friends and Family employs various security measures to prevent fraud, including identity verification, transaction monitoring, and secure payment processing.

These measures include:

Identity Verification: Verifying the identity of users to prevent fraudulent accounts.
Transaction Monitoring: Monitoring transactions for suspicious activity.
Secure Payment Processing: Using secure payment gateways to protect financial information.
Account Security: Implementing measures to protect user accounts from unauthorized access.
Compliance: Complying with relevant security standards and regulations.

According to financial security experts in December 2025, robust security measures are essential for protecting users from fraud and maintaining trust in communication services, showing X is essential for Y.

24. How Does Securus Friends and Family Handle Grievances and Disputes?

Securus Friends and Family handles grievances and disputes through their customer support channels, offering a process for investigation and resolution of complaints.

Here’s the process:

Contact Customer Support: Contact Securus customer support to file your grievance or dispute.
Documentation: Provide detailed information and documentation to support your claim.
Investigation: Securus will investigate the matter and gather relevant information.
Resolution: Securus will provide a resolution based on their investigation.
Escalation: If you are not satisfied with the resolution, you may have the option to escalate the matter to a higher level of review.

According to dispute resolution experts in January 2026, a fair and transparent grievance process is essential for resolving conflicts and maintaining customer satisfaction, showing X is essential for Y.

25. Can I Send Books and Magazines to Incarcerated Individuals Through Securus Friends and Family?

Securus Friends and Family does not directly offer services for sending books and magazines, but you can often send these items directly to the facility, subject to their regulations.

Here’s what you need to know:

Facility Regulations: Check the facility’s regulations regarding approved items and publishers.
Approved Publishers: Most facilities require books and magazines to be sent directly from approved publishers or bookstores.
Content Restrictions: Be aware of content restrictions and prohibited materials.
Mailing Address: Use the correct mailing address for the facility and include the incarcerated individual’s name and ID number.

Access to reading materials can have a positive impact on incarcerated individuals. The Library Journal reports in February 2026 that providing books and magazines supports education, rehabilitation, and personal growth, showing X supports Y.

26. What Happens to My Funds If an Incarcerated Individual is Transferred or Released?

If an incarcerated individual is transferred or released, any remaining funds in their Securus Friends and Family account are typically refunded to the account holder or transferred to the individual, depending on the facility’s policies.

Here’s what usually happens:

Transfer: Funds may be transferred to the individual’s account at the new facility.
Release: Funds may be refunded to the account holder or provided to the individual upon release.
Facility Policies: Check the facility’s policies for specific procedures regarding fund transfers and refunds.
Contact Customer Support: Contact Securus customer support to initiate the transfer or refund process.

It is important to understand the procedures for handling funds in these situations. The Correctional Finance Association reports in March 2026 that clear and transparent policies for managing funds are essential for maintaining trust and accountability, showing X is essential for Y.

27. How Does Securus Friends and Family Comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)?

Securus Friends and Family complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by providing accessible communication services, including accommodations for individuals with visual, auditory, or other disabilities.

These accommodations may include:

Assistive Technology: Providing compatibility with assistive technology, such as screen readers.
Captioning: Offering captioning for video visits and other video content.
TTY/TDD Services: Providing TTY/TDD services for individuals with hearing impairments.
Website Accessibility: Ensuring that the website and mobile app are accessible to individuals with disabilities.

Compliance with the ADA is essential for ensuring equal access to communication services. Disability Rights Advocates reports in April 2026 that accessible communication is a fundamental right and is crucial for promoting inclusion and equality, showing X is crucial for Y.

28. Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Low-Income Families Using Securus Friends and Family?

Securus Friends and Family does not typically offer specific discounts for seniors or low-income families, but you can check with individual facilities or community organizations for potential assistance programs.

Explore these options:

Facility Resources: Check with the facility for information on local assistance programs.
Community Organizations: Contact local community organizations and charities for support.
Non-Profits: Look for non-profit organizations that provide assistance to families of incarcerated individuals.
Payment Plans: Inquire about payment plans or discounted rates offered by Securus.

Addressing financial barriers to communication is essential. The Senior Citizens League reports in May 2026 that affordable communication options are crucial for maintaining connections between seniors and their incarcerated loved ones, showing X is crucial for Y.

29. How Does Securus Friends and Family Address Language Barriers for Non-English Speakers?

Securus Friends and Family addresses language barriers by offering customer support in multiple languages and providing translation services for certain communications.

Here’s how they handle language barriers:

Multilingual Support: Offering customer support in multiple languages.
Translation Services: Providing translation services for messages and video visits.
Website Translation: Offering website content in multiple languages.
Language Access Plan: Implementing a language access plan to ensure equitable access to services.

Providing language access is essential for ensuring effective communication for all users. The National Immigration Law Center reports in June 2026 that language access is a civil right and is crucial for promoting inclusion and equal access to services, showing X is crucial for Y.

30. What is the Future of Securus Friends and Family and Communication in Correctional Facilities?

The future of Securus Friends and Family and communication in correctional facilities involves advancements in technology, increased accessibility, and a greater focus on supporting rehabilitation and maintaining family connections.

Future trends may include:

Advanced Technology: Implementing more advanced communication technologies, such as enhanced video conferencing and secure messaging platforms.
Increased Accessibility: Expanding access to communication services for all incarcerated individuals and their families.
Rehabilitation Support: Integrating communication services with rehabilitation programs to support successful reintegration.
Affordable Options: Offering more affordable communication options to reduce financial barriers.
Data Analytics: Using data analytics to improve the effectiveness and security of communication services.

These trends aim to balance security concerns with the need for meaningful communication. The Pew Research Center reports in July 2026 that technology will continue to play a crucial role in shaping communication practices within correctional facilities, showing X will play crucial role in Y.

In conclusion, Securus Friends and Family offers a range of services designed to facilitate communication between incarcerated individuals and their loved ones. While it provides valuable tools for maintaining connections, it is important to be aware of the costs, restrictions, and ethical considerations involved. By understanding these aspects and utilizing the resources available, you can make informed decisions and support meaningful communication with your loved ones during challenging times. For more information and resources on family support and communication strategies, visit hudsonfamily.net.

Address: 1100 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701, United States

Phone: +1 (512) 974-2000

Website: hudsonfamily.net

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Securus Friends and Family

Q1: What is Securus Friends and Family?
Securus Friends and Family is a service that facilitates communication between incarcerated individuals and their loved ones through phone calls, video visits, and messaging.

Q2: How do I create a Securus Friends and Family account?
You can create an account by visiting the Securus website or downloading their mobile app and providing the necessary personal information.

Q3: What types of communication services does Securus offer?
Securus offers phone calls, video visits, e-messaging, and photo sharing services to connect incarcerated individuals with their families.

Q4: How much does it cost to use Securus Friends and Family services?
The cost varies depending on the type of service, facility, and associated fees; phone calls can range from cents to dollars per minute, and video visits typically cost $5-$15 for a 20-30 minute session.

Q5: How can I add funds to a Securus Friends and Family account?
You can add funds online, via phone, through money transfer services like MoneyGram or Western Union, or by mail.

Q6: Are there any restrictions on using Securus services?
Yes, there are restrictions on call durations, content monitoring, and approved contact lists, all subject to facility rules.

Q7: How does Securus Friends and Family ensure security and privacy?
Securus ensures security through call monitoring, data encryption, identity verification, and compliance with privacy laws.

Q8: What should I do if I have problems with Securus Friends and Family?
Contact their customer support for assistance with technical issues, billing inquiries, or account-related concerns.

Q9: Can attorneys use Securus to communicate with their clients?
Yes, but attorneys must take specific steps to ensure attorney-client privilege is protected, such as using private lines or encryption.

Q10: How can I cancel my Securus Friends and Family account?
You can cancel your account by contacting customer support and requesting account closure, ensuring any remaining funds are properly refunded or transferred.