Tips to prevent data overage

With Data Overage Protection, you can say goodbye to suprise data overage charges. See our Data Overage Protection FAQs to learn more.

Streaming / downloading video or music, downloading or playing games online when a constant connection is required (e.g. role playing games, massively multiplayer online game) are some of the most data-rich activities. Try downloading heavier content onto your computer first then syncing to your mobile device. Or you can use a Wi-Fi connection when doing these activities.

Many social networking and news apps use data to send out notifications. Be sure to review the app settings after you download to manage the frequency of notifications you receive.

This feature is mainly used by your GPS/mapping program to provide extra accuracy for directions and is also used by most apps that require your exact location. When you are not using mapping apps, we recommend that this featured be turned off.

Although e-mail is generally small and represents a small portion of your data usage, it can contribute to data overage if you have several accounts and are pushing messages automatically. Try setting your e-mail to fetch timing so that your messages refresh periodically rather than in real-time or setting it to manual so that your mailbox is updated every time you access it.

With Wi-Fi Assist (iOS) and Smart Network Switching (Android) features turned on, your device automatically uses your cellular data if your Wi-Fi connection isn't strong. To turn this feature off, select your device type and follow the steps below:

iOS (version 9+)

Select Settings > Cellular > Wi-Fi Auto Assist > Toggle Off

Android (version 4.1+)

1. Select Settings, then Wi-Fi
2. Press Menu key
3. Select Advanced
4. Choose AutoSwitch or Smart Network Switch
5. Toggle Off

This feature allows another device (e.g. tablet, another cell phone, laptop, etc.) to establish a data connection with your phone. When connected, any data used by the other device will be deducted from your data bucket/allotment.

Some widgets, news feeds, applications, etc. continue to run in the background and update in real-time even if you are not actively using them. To stop programs from running in the background, follow the instructions below or refer to your device’s user guide.

We would like to provide you some tips on how to decrease your usage when connected to Extended Coverage.

1. Check your device - you’ll see EXT or a roaming indicator on your device screen, which means you’re using Extended Coverage. Fido will also send you a text message the first time you start using Extended Coverage, and if you use Extended Coverage regularly, we’ll send you occasional reminders
2. Use a wi-fi hotspot. A wi-fi hotspot is an area where you can use your device. This will help cut down on your data usage if you’re connected to Extended Coverage.
3. Check extended coverage area.
4. Turn data roaming off. Turn your data roaming off in your device settings to turn off your access to the internet while Extended Coverage area.