Most smartphones do require you to have a data package. And, many cell phone companies require a one or two year contract when you purchase the phone and charge a very high fee to get out of the contract. Was any of this a requirement when you purchased your smartphone? You may not have much recourse at this point in time. I know with Verizon, we had to take the data plan in order to get a smart phone. If you have discovered that this is a financial burden for you, I really hope you can get out of your contract and find phones/plan that will serve your purpose!