The best way to protect yourself from inmate Con Games?

• A. Be professional at all times
• B. Have strong boundaries, and know how to say "No"
• C. Monitoring your conversations with inmates
• D. All the above

Answer: (D)

Staying safe from inmate con games hinges on three practices working together: maintain professionalism at all times, keep strong boundaries and be ready to say no, and monitor conversations with inmates.

Being professional at all times helps you stay consistent, neutral, and less susceptible to manipulation. When your behavior is steady and respectful rather than familiar or casual, inmates have fewer opportunities to read you or push your boundaries. Clear boundaries act as a shield; knowing when to decline and sticking to it prevents entanglements over favors, information, or privileges that could be used against you. Saying no firmly and confidently reinforces those limits so you’re not drawn into compromising situations. Finally, monitoring conversations isn’t about policing every word, but being mindful of what inmates are pressing for, what personal information might be inadvertently disclosed, and spotting patterns of manipulation early. By combining these elements, you create multiple layers of protection that reduce risk far more effectively than any single measure alone.