by Kyle Getson

Created on: October 09, 2009

Nobody likes getting stuck with unexpected data charges. Its never good when your bill comes with an extra $500 for data charges. I know I've been a victim of unexpected data charges. I know this is a common problem even those without iPhones or Blackberries. There have even been reports in the news of users getting a bill for thousands of dollars in data charges. Seems ridiculous right? There are other alternatives.

Here are 4 easy tips to avoid those expensive charges.

1. Keep your data usage to a minimum. Only use your mobile browser, or other apps when you really need it. Think about how much it may cost you to use it. Most of the time, if you realize something like 'reading Yahoo! News is going to cost me $5 then think of what else you could purchase for that price. A newspaper, a magazine and a pack of gum? Sounds like that may be a better option for the $5.

2. Watch the clock when you use it. Know how much your data costs, per MB so you know what your bill is going to be. Depending on the speed your phone can download the web you could easily use 10MB, 20MB, 30MB or more in an hour, so think twice before you spend your idle time browsing on your mobile device.

3. If you accidentally use data by accidentally pressing a button, or opening your mobile browser, contact your provider about blocking applications like your browser from your account. Most carriers will let you do this. Explain to them that you don't want data charges, and that you just want those services blocked. It shouldn't affect your account in any other way.

4. Figure out what you like to read on your phone, and create an account at txtFeeder.com. Its free. You can then read your favorite websites, blogs, twitter users and more, via text messages. You don't have to worry about any data charges. You simply communicate through a few simple commands and you can read for hours without the high cost.

If none of these options seem like they'll work for you, it may be best for you to investigate getting a data plan. Some carriers have unlimited data plans. It is a great deal more expensive than not having a data plan, but for some, this may be the only way to satisfy their need to get online.

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