OPINION: Why you don’t need data in Toronto

What if I told you I’ve been data-free since 2022 — and I like it?

As a university student relying on OSAP and working multiple jobs to provide for myself, I wanted to save money — any amount, at all.

I realized I had Wi-Fi pretty much everywhere I went, whether it was at my basement apartment in Kensington-Chinatown or on campus.

If I really needed to search for something while I was out, I could connect to a local cafe, a bank or one of the old trusty libraries you can find downtown.

So, why was I paying $30 a month or more for something I didn’t need?

Although I don’t have data, I am cautious about my public Wi-Fi usage. You can take the risk or use a VPN for privacy protection.

I also feel I’ve gained more city and life skills since ditching data four years ago.

It’s felt pretty good to build those skills while society’s attention span shrinks and reliance on the online world increases.

In 2024, The Green Line’s November Action Journey discussed the loneliness epidemic.

The Toronto Foundation’s 2023 “Vital Signs” report said 37 per cent of Torontonians are lonely three to four days of the week, while only 28 per cent of the rest of Canada feel that way.

You have to look up from your phone and spark up a conversation if you want community.

I’ve been pushed outside my comfort zone as an introvert these past four years by asking TTC workers questions, chatting with café staff before asking for the Wi-Fi password and being open to talking to strangers (sorry, mom).

Do you think you could switch your plan to no data and rely on resources like The Green Line’s Wi-Fi map and places around the city?

• Discover The Green Line’s Wi-Fi map. If you’re in a pinch and need to be online, the map has your usual and unconventional connection spots.
• Check out the ConnectTO public Wi-Fi FAQ.
• How to protect yourself on public Wi-Fi.

Tips to go data-less

• Discover The Green Line’s Wi-Fi map. If you’re in a pinch and need to be online, the map has your usual and unconventional connection spots.
• Check out the ConnectTO public Wi-Fi FAQ.
• How to protect yourself on public Wi-Fi.

We want to hear your opinions! Send us an email at hello@thegreenline.to or a DM on Instagram at @tglhelps.