Staying informed about updates from communication services like Global Tel Link (now ViaPath) is crucial, especially when managing accounts for incarcerated individuals. These updates often include important changes to account policies, security protocols, and service availability. Here’s a breakdown of recent important notices to help you manage your Global Tel Link account effectively and ensure the security of your information.
Data Security Notice: Understanding the 2020 Data Breach
In August 2020, Global Tel Link, also known as Telmate at the time, experienced a significant data breach. This incident unfortunately led to the exposure of personal information belonging to a large number of users. The compromised data included a range of sensitive details, potentially affecting thousands of individuals. The types of information exposed varied but could include:
- Personal names
- Contact details such as addresses and phone numbers
- Driver’s license and passport numbers
- Social Security numbers
- Payment card and financial account information
- Private messages
- Grievance forms
It’s important to note that not every individual had all categories of information exposed. If you were a Telmate user around August 2020, it is advisable to review the detailed information available in this PDF document: Telmate Data Breach Information. This document provides further insights into the breach and steps you can take to protect your personal information from potential misuse.
Account Inactivity Policy: Managing Your AdvancePay Funds
A key policy change to be aware of is related to AdvancePay account inactivity. Effective December 28, 2022, Global Tel Link implemented a policy regarding inactive accounts. According to this policy, if your AdvancePay account remains inactive for 180 consecutive days, it will be deemed inactive and may be subject to forfeiture. Inactivity is defined as a period without any use or activity on the account. This timeframe might be adjusted based on specific state laws or contractual agreements, so it’s essential to be aware of the terms applicable to your location.
To prevent your account from becoming inactive and potentially forfeiting funds, ensure you use your AdvancePay account at least once every 180 days. Using the account at any point during the inactivity period will reset the clock, giving you another 180 days before inactivity is considered again.
If you find yourself with an inactive account and wish to recover your funds, Global Tel Link offers a refund process. You can initiate a refund by contacting customer service at 877-650-4249.
For added convenience and to help you manage your account proactively, ViaPath offers reminder alerts. If you have provided your contact information and opted-in to receive notifications, you will receive a text and/or email reminder about your account’s scheduled expiration. This reminder will be sent no later than 30 days before the account is set to expire, giving you ample time to take action.
Important Update for Minnesota Department of Corrections: No-Cost Calls
There is a significant positive change for friends and family of incarcerated individuals within the Minnesota Department of Corrections (DOC). Starting July 1, 2023, all calls originating from incarcerated individuals at Minnesota DOC facilities are provided at no cost. This means neither the recipient nor the incarcerated individual will be charged for these calls.
In line with this policy change, the Minnesota Department of Corrections ceased processing deposits for pre-paid calls beginning June 30, 2023, at 10:00 pm CST. If you typically add money to your Global Tel Link account to receive calls from individuals at Minnesota DOC facilities, it’s crucial to have considered your call plans leading up to June 30th. Adding funds after this point for Minnesota DOC calls is unnecessary as the calls are now free.
For more detailed information regarding this no-cost calling initiative in Minnesota, you can visit the Minnesota Department of Corrections website: Minnesota Department of Corrections No-Cost Calling Information.
Staying Informed with Global Tel Link (ViaPath)
These important notices highlight the need to stay informed about policy changes and security updates from Global Tel Link (ViaPath). Whether it’s understanding data breach implications, managing account inactivity to protect your funds when you add money to your global tel link account, or taking advantage of new service benefits like free calls in Minnesota, staying updated ensures a smoother and more secure experience with their services. Regularly check for updates and utilize the provided resources to manage your account effectively.
