Unpacking the Unfair Profits of Securus Tablet Technology in Texas Prisons

Kimbel Brandon
Jun 11
3 min read

The use of technology in prisons is often seen as a way to improve communication and access to information for incarcerated individuals. However, the reality behind some of these technologies reveals a troubling pattern of excessive charges and unfair profits. One clear example is the Securus tablet technology deployed in Texas prisons. While these tablets promise to offer educational resources, communication tools, and entertainment, the costs imposed on inmates and their families raise serious ethical and financial concerns.

How Securus Tablets Work in Texas Prisons

Securus Technologies provides tablets to inmates in many Texas correctional facilities. These devices allow prisoners to send messages, make phone calls, access educational content, and even read books. The goal is to improve inmates’ quality of life and maintain connections with loved ones outside prison walls.

Despite these benefits, the tablets come with steep fees. Inmates or their families must pay for tablet usage, including messaging and video calls. The pricing structure often includes:

High per-minute rates for calls and video chats
Charges for sending electronic messages
Fees for downloading or accessing certain content

These costs quickly add up, especially for inmates with limited financial resources and families already burdened by the expenses of incarceration.

The Financial Impact on Inmates and Families

Many families of incarcerated individuals struggle to cover basic living expenses. Adding the cost of Securus tablets creates an additional financial strain. For example, a 15-minute video call can cost upwards of $15, which is far above typical market rates for similar services outside prison.

This pricing model effectively turns communication—a basic human need—into a luxury. Families often have to choose between paying for calls or other essentials. In some cases, inmates may be forced to go without contact with loved ones, which can harm their mental health and rehabilitation prospects.

Why Are Securus Tablet Fees So High?

The high fees charged by Securus stem from contracts between the company and the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ). These contracts grant Securus exclusive rights to provide communication services in many facilities. Without competition, Securus can set prices with little oversight.

Additionally, the company shares a portion of its revenue with the state, creating a financial incentive to keep prices high. This arrangement raises ethical questions about profiting from incarceration and whether the state benefits at the expense of inmates and their families.

Examples of Unfair Profit Practices

Several reports and investigations have highlighted how Securus profits from its tablet services:

Exorbitant call rates: Calls from prison phones or tablets often cost several times more than standard rates. Families pay hundreds of dollars monthly just to maintain contact.
Hidden fees: Some users report unexpected charges for services like messaging or content access.
Limited alternatives: Because Securus holds exclusive contracts, inmates cannot choose cheaper or more affordable communication options.

These practices contribute to a cycle where incarcerated people and their families bear the financial burden of maintaining basic communication.

The Broader Consequences of High Tablet Fees

The impact of these unfair profits goes beyond money. Communication with family and friends plays a crucial role in reducing recidivism and supporting mental health. When high costs limit access, inmates face increased isolation and stress.

Moreover, the financial pressure on families can lead to strained relationships and reduced support networks. This situation undermines efforts to rehabilitate inmates and prepare them for successful reentry into society.

Calls for Reform and Fair Pricing

Advocates, lawmakers, and watchdog groups have called for reforms to address the unfair pricing of Securus tablet services. Some proposed measures include:

Introducing price caps on calls and messaging fees
Allowing multiple providers to compete for contracts
Increasing transparency around fees and contracts
Providing free or low-cost access to educational and communication tools

In Texas and other states, these reforms aim to balance the benefits of technology with fairness and affordability.

What Can Families and Advocates Do?

Families and advocates can take several steps to push for change:

Raise awareness: Share stories and data about the financial impact of Securus fees.
Engage lawmakers: Contact state representatives to support legislation limiting costs.
Support advocacy groups: Join organizations working to improve prison communication policies.
Explore alternatives: Some nonprofits offer free or low-cost communication options for inmates.