Data finishes faster than money these days. One moment, you have a full subscription, and the next, you’re staring at that dreaded “You have used up 90% of your data” message.

The struggle is real, especially when you still have important things to do online. And now, with telecom companies and citizens at loggerheads over the recent data tariff increase, managing data wisely has become a survival skill.

If your subscription keeps vanishing like a plate of jollof at a party, it’s time to take control. Here are five smart ways to make your data last longer:
READ ALSO:New tariff regime begins as telcos implement 50% hike on calls, data

1. Turn off background data

Some apps secretly sip your data even when you’re not using them. Stop them from draining your subscription.

• Android: Go to Settings > Apps > Select App > Data Usage and disable background data.
• iPhone: Navigate to Settings > General > Background App Refresh and turn it off for non-essential apps.

2. Use data-saving browsers

Regular browsers can be data guzzlers, but Google Chrome and Opera Mini have built-in data-saving features. Turn them on to reduce how much data you use while browsing.

3. Disable auto-play for videos

Social media apps silently waste your data by autoplaying videos. Here’s how to stop it:

• Instagram: Settings > Data Usage > Use Less Data
• Facebook: Settings > Media & Contacts > Autoplay > Never Autoplay Videos
• X: Settings > Data Usage > Video Autoplay > Never

4. Download content over Wi-fi

Streaming music, movies, or podcasts? Download them while on Wi-Fi and enjoy offline to save your mobile data.5. Monitor your data usage . keep an eye on your data usage so you don’t get any surprises.

• Android: Settings > Network & Internet > Data Usage
• iPhone: Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Usage

With these simple tricks, your data can stretch longer, giving you more value for your money. And if someone gifts you data this period, just know they truly care about you.