Wondering why your internet is running out? Bora Erdin explains
According to an article by Bora Erdin on 12punto.com.tr, while users complain about their internet packages running out quickly, BTK's data logging obligations and high-traffic applications may be contributing to the early depletion of these packages.
12punto
In recent days, the rapid depletion of 50–60 GB mobile internet packages within just a few days has become a topic of discussion among users. Even users who have not changed their phone settings or are connected to a Wi-Fi network report that their packages are being consumed quickly. In an article published by Bora Erdin on 12punto.com.tr, this situation is detailed both technically and through regulatory rules.
BTK DECISION AND DATA LOGGING OBLIGATION
According to Erdin, the Information and Communication Technologies Authority (BTK), through a board decision taken in May 2024, mandates that internet service providers store data logs regarding users' online activities. This obligation is based on laws numbered 5397 and 5651.
While the aforementioned law regulates publications made in the internet environment and the fight against crimes, it imposes an obligation on providers to record user traffic for certain periods. In his article, Erdin summarizes the practical effect of this situation as follows:
"In other words, while you are downloading 1 GB for yourself, you are also downloading 1 GB for the BTK."
This statement indicates that every amount of data consumed by users is processed again by operators for legal recording purposes, and this situation creates extra costs.
COST AND INTERNET PACKAGES
In Erdin's article, it is stated that the logging obligation creates additional traffic and storage costs for operators, and therefore this cost may be indirectly reflected to the user. It is suggested that this situation may be effective in the rapid depletion of mobile packages.
BTK 2025 REPORT: YOUTUBE IS FAR AHEAD
In Bora Erdin's article, the BTK's first-quarter 2025 report is also evaluated. According to the report, YouTube accounts for the highest share of total internet traffic in Turkey (46.1%). This is followed by Instagram with 13 percent and Netflix with 5.9 percent.
Intensive usage focused on video and social media contributes to the faster depletion of packages.
According to the article, instant messaging applications also occupy a significant place in user traffic. While Instagram stands out as the most widely used application with 55 percent, it is followed by WhatsApp (14.8%), Facebook (13%), and Telegram (11%). This situation highlights the role of social media usage in data consumption.