So, what about Skype security?

With the wide selection of PC users using Skype, many wonder just how secure this new means of instant messaging is. Can other people read the conversations that are held through the instant messaging system in Skype? What about phone calls, can they be recorded, can they be heard by 3rd parties? Since Skype is used by a lot of organizations, wondering is Skype secure is a very practical question for many.
Skype is for the most part secure. All conversations whether voice, video or instant messaging are encrypted with strong encryption algorithms. This makes the calls private and secure. That being said, there can be ways that these conversations can be unprotected. One way can be if one of the participants in the conversation is using Skype software that has been modified, or the calls are being routed thru servers and other phone networks. Once these elements are brought into play, the security can be breached and it is possible that a conversation can become unsecure.
Skype also adds protection to their system, by making sure that the software one needs to download is free of adware, malware and spyware. This means that nothing that is downloaded with the software will produce intrusive advertisements, nothing will log ones activities and there should be no programs that will cause problems to ones computer. It still is possible that a person or business could have downloaded some of these troublesome programs through another source, that is why it is recommended that one use an antivirus program on a regular basis and keep it up to date.




Skype strives to keep its customer’s data secure. They do, however, have to cooperate with local law enforcement. When the need arises, Skype will do what they can legally to provide assistance to a law enforcement agency that requests such information. They do not disclose personal or other information unless they have an authorized lawful request in compliance with local laws. Even though the main company is located in Luxembourg, they have local partners, operators or companies that provide personal data, communications and other such services. This makes the local laws applicable in most cases.