Avoid Your Safaricom Data Running Out Fast- Here Are 6 Ways to Save It

Many Safaricom subscribers have raised concerns over their mobile data bundles running out faster than anticipated. Users report unexpected deductions and unexplained consumption, prompting a search for practical solutions.

Safaricom clarifies that mobile data is often consumed by activities running in the background, not just by visible actions like browsing, streaming, or social media use. Features such as automatic app updates, cloud synchronization, content preloading, and notifications continuously consume data—even when devices appear idle.

Monitoring Data Usage on Devices

Subscribers can track data usage to identify which apps consume the most:

Android users: Go to Settings → Data Usage to view both foreground and background data consumption per app.

iPhone users: Navigate to Settings → Cellular to see app-specific data usage and restrict cellular data for apps using excessive amounts.

Common culprits for hidden data usage include:

Social media platforms (Instagram, Facebook, X/Twitter)

Cloud storage services (Google Drive, iCloud, OneDrive)

Messaging apps with media backups (WhatsApp, Telegram)

Video and music streaming apps

Practical Tips to Reduce Data Consumption

1. Restrict Background Data

Limit background activity for apps that do not need constant internet access.

Android: Settings → Data Usage → Select App → Restrict Background Data

iOS: Settings → General → Background App Refresh → Off

2. Update Apps Only Over Wi-Fi

Prevent automatic updates from consuming mobile data.

Android: Google Play Store → Settings → Auto-update apps → Over Wi-Fi only

iOS: Settings → App Store → Use Cellular Data → Off

3. Manage Data-Heavy Apps

Identify apps using the most data and consider lighter alternatives, such as Facebook Lite or TweetCaster.