For that reason -- and since communications between inmates and nonprisoners are monitored by prison officials -- current inmates can't discuss mackerel transactions without risking discipline, say several lawyers and consultants who represent incarcerated clients.
"You can't just keep doing this to people who are risking their lives and then paying them a pittance, then expecting them to live in squalor, expecting them to use substandard equipment then expecting them to have second-rate health care when they come back, " said Mr Weston.
Rather than risking poor reviews for a product that isn't nearly ready, these companies will hold closed-door meetings with a select group of potential partners and analysts, and make them sign non-disclosure agreements.