Internet access is usually included with modern cell phones. It doesn't have to be difficult to buy a mobile phone that doesn't have internet access. However, if you cannot buy a mobile phone without internet access, you can always disable internet access by changing your phone's settings. Before buying a cell phone, ask the seller to make sure that the phone does not have internet access.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Choosing a phone and plan
Step #1. Check out older phones
Older phones often have fewer functionalities than new phones. The best place to start your search for a cell phone without internet access is to find one that was made 10 years ago or earlier.
Cell phones from before 1999 do not have access to the Internet. Phones produced after that may or may not have internet access
Step 2. Buy a phone that does not connect to the Internet
Most mobile phones come with pre-installed internet browsers or certain apps, but some require a separate data package to connect. To get a phone without internet access, choose one that requires a separate data package to connect. Before you buy it, talk to a seller to verify that a particular phone does not have internet access.
Step 3. Choose a subscription without data
When you activate your phone, ask your carrier not to include data in your monthly bill. This will prevent your phone from connecting to the internet if you are out of range of a Wi-Fi signal.
Step 4. Buy a cheap disposable phone
These are often foldable phones without internet access. While there are more expensive disposable phones that can connect to the Internet, the common and cheaper options at gas stations and electronics stores can't. They are relatively cheap, but they are also temporary.
Method 2 of 3: Deciding where to buy your phone
Step 1. Buy a phone from a store
Phone service providers and many department stores sell cell phones. Go to such a store and talk to an employee about your interest in a basic phone without internet access.
Step 2. Buy a used phone online
Online stores such as Bol and Amazon offer many basic phones without internet access. If you're not sure if a particular phone has Internet access, ask the seller.
Step 3. Apply for a government cell phone
Some countries offer free or discounted cell phones to their citizens. These phones are often older and second-hand, and may not have Internet access. When you request such a phone, indicate that you want one without internet access.
Method 3 of 3: Adjust phone options
Step 1. Turn off Wi-Fi
Instead of buying a phone without internet access, you can also buy a phone that isn't connected to the internet – and keep it that way. To do this, turn off your phone's Wi-Fi. The specific process by which you turn off your Wi-Fi on your mobile phone depends on the make and model. Refer to your phone's user guide for more information on how to turn off your phone's Wi-Fi.
Step 2. Turn off your data
Data settings allow your mobile phone to connect to the internet even when there is no Wi-Fi signal nearby. The process by which you can disable your data depends on the make and model of your phone. Please refer to your owner's manual for specific instructions.
Step 3. Turn off your internet access
To disable internet access for system updates, apps, and browsers, you need to disable the ISP APN settings on the phone. The specific process for this will depend on the make and model of your phone. Refer to the user guide for information on how to disable your phone's APN settings.