AT&T - Samsung S10e Data Leak

[Members_LwlLmYl]

I rarely use my cell phone.  So I am on a plan where when I make a call or text I am charged $3 for the next 24 hours.  Also, I can buy data in increments of 250MG for $5.  At the beginning of this month I purchased data that was to expire at the end of the month.  Around the 20th of the month I received a text, saying all data had been used.  When I downloaded the account history I noticed data had "leaked" out of my phone every single day.  I used my phone 3 times in that period, once to make a call, once to text a single message, and once to go online and check an account balance.  Is it normal for data to be used whether or not I am using the phone?

[LongHiker]

@Members_LwlLmYl If you phone is powered on, it wouldn't be unexpected for apps to check for notifications or emails. 

To see what has been using mobile data:

1. Open phone settings
2. Click on Connections
3. Click on Data usage
4. Click on Mobile data usage

You will see a list of apps which used mobile data in the time frame specified at the top of the screen. 

[Members_LwlLmYl · Accepted solution]

Thanks.  I checked Mobile Data Usage and noticed a number of apps that showed data use, especially Google Play Store.  I opened each app and turned off Allow background data usage.  I'll keep better track next time I buy data.

[realaud]

You can also cap your data.  In the data usage settings @LongHiker referenced, turn on data saver. Also go to billing cycle and data warning. Set your billing cycle start date, turn on "set data warning" and set  it to just slightly below what you purchased. You will be notified when you are nearing the limit.  Turn on "set data limit" and set the limit to the amount you usually purchase.  Your data will stop cold when it hits that limit (you can manually bypass this or reset the limit if you purchase more data).  You can also turn mobile data off in the quick panel and only turn it on when you are going to use data. Apps cannot use mobile data when its toggled off.  Check the Play store to make sure that updates download over wi-fi only.  Also, go to connections/wi-fi and tap the dot menu for the intelligent wi-fi settings and make sure "switch to mobile data" is turned off.

[Members_LwlLmYl]

I followed Long Hiker's suggestion and found a number of apps that had used data, especially Google Play Store, which I rarely use.  When I do purchase data it's only 250 MG, so I don't think I need to set a limit, especially since it cuts off on a specific day, whether or not I use it (no rollover).  But thanks for the suggestion.

[realaud]

You don't have to be using the play store often if you have automatic update on, Google play looks for updates every night. You either have to turn auto updates off or make sure it's set to WiFi only.

[meself]

Didn't think any carrier had that option anymore your phone will look for updates or use data in doing so