Mobile Data Usage - A5

[Ian Preddy]

Hi,

I have a limited data allowance in my phone contract and have it switched to Mobile Data OFF. When out and about, I do use mobile data but only for low usage activity, eg emails. Looking at my data usage, I see a large amount allocated to my virus program. If I hit the link for the security app, I have Allow background data usage to OFF.

What am I doing wrong?

Thanks,

Ian

 

[kate]

I'd guess it's downloading virus definition updates, with background data usage off not sure how it's using mobile data though. You could check the apps settings and see if there's a WiFi only option to save mobile data.

Also, many will recommend that you don't really need an antivirus program for Android, unless you're installing apps from unknown sources. Don't download apps from untrusted sites, or apps that have bad reviews.

 

[Deleted User]

I'd uninstall it.

 

[bcrichster]

Some apps also attain 'unlimited data' function.. Usually a switch can disable it

 

[Ian Preddy]

Hi all,

Many thanks for your input. I use the antivirus app because it's part of my broadband package. Before I disable it, I'd like to be sure I'm not missing anything. I attach some screen shots, which I assume you'll all recognise.

A is accessed through Connections/Mobile data.
B is accessed from the last page. You'll notice the sudden rise in usage due to the antivurus package, in spite of being, supposedly, disabled.
C is accessed from the previous page by clicking on the antivirus icon.
D is accessed from the App itself and here is where there's a question mark. At the bottom of the page, it now says Samsung Internet for default browser. Previously, this was unset. Up to this point, I've been using Safe Browser for internet access but this isn't one of the options, the only ones available being Talktalk (virus app), Samsung Internet and DuckDuckGo, my preferred search app. Why is Safe Browser not an option, or am I misunderstanding how things work?

Thanks,

Ian

 

[mikedt]

I wonder if TalkTalk Supersafe is operating as a VPN? If it is, that might account for it using a lot of mobile data. Some security type apps do offer VPN services.

 

[Ian Preddy]

Hi Mike,

I've no idea, I'm afraid. How would I know?

I also attach another two screenshots.

E is Talktalk app/Menu/Safe browsing.
F is Talktalk app/Menu/Settings.

you're aware I assume, that the Talktalk app is based on F-Secure.

See also D above. There seems to be a bit of conflict between browsers. Why does Samsung show two apps?

On F, I've selected Use any available network because I only use mobile data when I can't get on to outside networks such as stores and libraries.

Thanks,

Ian

 

[mikedt]

Hi Mike,

I've no idea, I'm afraid. How would I know?

I also attach another two screenshots.

E is Talktalk app/Menu/Safe browsing.
F is Talktalk app/Menu/Settings.

you're aware I assume, that the Talktalk app is based on F-Secure.

See also D above. There seems to be a bit of conflict between browsers. Why does Samsung show two apps?

On F, I've selected Use any available network because I only use mobile data when I can't get on to outside networks such as stores and libraries.

Thanks,

Ian

Apparently the Safe Browser does use its own VPN type service, which is a remote proxy where the Safe Browser data is encrypted and goes through. And I think would appear as data being consumed by TalkTalk(based on F-Secure) app service. Other than that, I don't know F-Secure, I've never used it.

 

[Ian Preddy]

Thanks Mike,

I'm now in "haven't a clue" territory. If I've got all the settings right, I'll monitor the situation and see if the high demand stops. Do you have any advice on which browser would be most appropriate?

Thanks again,

Ian