E-mail pen pal sites give prisoners a link to the world outside
Article Abstract:
E-mail is providing a way for prisoners to communicate with outsiders via Websites. Prisoners are not generally allowed access to computers but there are services available on the Internet that maintain Web pages for them and collect, print out and post their e-mail. The prisoners then write back to the Web site operators who email the responses back to outsiders. One operator of such a service, Penn-Pals, is Charles Sparks who has turned it into a small business, charging prisoners a fee for provision of a Web page and e-mail address. He gives the service free to inmates in solitary confinement. Several similar sites exist. Legislators in some states are concerned, percieving it as a way for predatory prisoners to connect with potential victims. Not all states allow inmates use of the service. New York has laws against third party intermediaries in communications between prisoners and outsiders.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1999
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In Electronic Devices. The Future Is Now
Article Abstract:
A selection of electronic gadgets that will make work and personal life easier and more productive is described. They include products for travel, office and home use.
Publication Name: Nation's Business
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0028-047X
Year: 1998
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