Is it safe to send money to an unknown inmate

Sending commissary money to someone you have never met, especially at Lowell Correctional Institution, is something you should approach very carefully.

There are inmates who genuinely need help, but there are also many who look for support from people on the outside as a way to secure ongoing money. Once you send funds, it is common for requests to continue, sometimes with increasing urgency or emotional pressure.

Here are some practical guidelines:

• Be cautious from the start
  If you do not have a real relationship with the person, assume risk. There is no way to verify their situation fully from the outside.
• Do not share personal information
  Avoid giving out your address, financial details, or anything that could be used beyond sending funds.
• Watch for pressure or promises
  Stories that feel urgent, emotional, or involve repayment are common tactics. Inmates cannot realistically “pay you back” from inside.
• Use only approved systems
  If you do send money, only use official channels approved by the facility so the transaction is secure.
• Set firm limits
  If you decide to help, treat it as a one-time decision, not an ongoing obligation.

The reality is simple: if you have never met this person, there is a real chance you are being tested to see if you are willing to send money. It does not mean every situation is a scam, but you should assume that possibility and protect yourself first.