In this video, I talked about something that happens way too often in prison—guys getting caught with iPhones. It’s not just a rare event. Honestly, it’s almost a daily thing. The question isn’t whether it’s happening; it’s about how you handle it when it does.
If you’re in a low-security prison, one goal is to keep transferred to a camp, if you are eligible. The last thing you want is to get transferred to a higher-security facility, especially if you’ve got a shot at going to a minimum-security camp. The difference between those places is huge, and not in a good way if you’re bumped up to a higher-security level.
Why Risk It?
I get why people are tempted. Having a phone in prison is like having a lifeline to the outside world. You can keep in touch with family, maybe catch some news, or just feel connected to something outside of those walls. But is it worth it? Probably not.
Getting caught with a phone doesn’t just mean you lose the phone. It means you could lose a lot more—like privileges, visits, or even your shot at an earlier release. And depending on how serious the situation is, you might end up at a higher-security facility. And that’s a whole different world.
What Should You Really Be Focused On?
The goal is pretty simple: get through your time without making things worse. Then you can plan and build. If you’re in a low-security prison, your focus should be staying there or, better yet, working your way down to a camp.
But to do that, you’ve got to avoid the stuff that gets you in trouble. That means saying no to things like phones, drugs, or any other kind of prison hustle. It’s not easy, especially when everyone around you seems to be getting involved in something shady. But it’s not worth the risk.
What Happens If You Make the Wrong Choice?
If you do get caught with a phone, the consequences are real. You might get moved to a medium-security facility, which is a whole different experience—more restrictions, less freedom, and a tougher environment overall. I’ve seen it happen to guys who thought they could outsmart the system. They end up with more time, fewer privileges, and a harder road ahead.
I know it can feel unfair sometimes like the system is designed to trip you up. And in a lot of ways, it is. But the key to getting through it is staying smart and not giving them any reason to make your life harder. That means keeping your nose clean and avoiding anything that could derail your progress.
So What Do You Do?
Stay out of trouble. It’s that simple. The system may not be fair, but you’ve got to play the game to get through it. Follow the rules, even when it feels pointless. The people who get through without making things worse are the ones who keep their heads down and stay focused on the bigger picture—getting home.
It’s not always easy. But it’s the only way to get through it with your dignity and your shot at a better life still intact. Don’t let small decisions, like sneaking a phone, destroy your federal prison sentence.
Justin Paperny