How to avoid unwanted GPRS charge for PocketPC / Windows Mobile 6.0

A few years ago, older PocketPC or WM 5.0 phones like HP or dopod phone, there are not much functions that relys on the Internet. GPRS charges back that were controllable.

When HTC Touch and similar models launched some innovative (aks pesky) functions like weather, users have been noticing the increasing amount of data usage. If you are unwary about this (probably you were a Nokia user etc), you might have an agonizing memory of being charged for high data charge. This is especially true in some countries where tariff plans are/were just legal pillage.

Recently we have heard a couple of cases of charging more than 1000 euros for unintentional usage. If you want to prevent tregady from happening, you may want to:
- Disable the data function entirely. You can call your phone operator to block the GPRS/3G function. This will ensure you can only use Internet in wi-fi coverage.
- If phone operator refuses to block the function, you can manually set wrong parameter at Start->Settings->Connection->Connection->Internet Settings. Obfuscate the settings (like access point) to prevent it from using the network to online. This option is quite advanced and should only be used by those who understand this entire paragraph. Wrong settings might cause error in wi-fi connection.
- Disable the Assisted-GPS (AGPS) function. This will significantly slow down GPS geographic location though. Use at your own choice.
- set synchonizing of e-mail and RSS feeds to manual mode, do it only when you are connecting via wi-fi
- set weather, update to manual or disable it if unnecessary


and if your tariff has limited usage:

- Never use youtube. (Youtube for mobile)
- Logout services that requires connection. This is common sense, but some users will always forget no matter what. Logout your Windows Mobile Messenger, Google Latitude, Skype for WM and the like after usage. This saves battery too.
- Beware of the connection mode! Ensure the wi-fi does not suddenly switch to HSDPA/EDGE/GPRS/whatever. This is a major trap.
- Monitor suspectible usage with dedicated software, for example, the Spb Wireless Monitor (warning: not freeware).

These methods are generally true for most popular models, HTC Touch Diamond, Cruise, HD, Pro, Samsung Omnia, SonyEricsson Xperia, LG KS20, Motorola Motosurf A3100, ASUS P835, HP iPAQ Data Messenger, and the like.