Your Online Data Security may be in Danger if you use Skype

Skype is often praised for being free to use, but your online data security may be the real price you pay.

A recent experiment conducted by Ars Technica, with the help of independent security researcher Ashkan Soltani, proved that Skype operator, Microsoft, just can’t keep its nose out of private messages. Soltani and Ars Technica sent through four test links and discovered that two of them were clicked on. Even though snooping is technically within its right due to the terms of use customers agree to, the Skype encryption assurance states:

“All Skype-to-Skype voice, video, and instant message conversations are encrypted. This protects you from potential eavesdropping by malicious users.”

I guess they consider themselves exempt. Of course, Skype reserves the right to see personal details in order to delete viruses and protect against fraud. In other words, they intend to use this ability for your own good.

What makes this particular case tricky is Skype’s popularity in the business world as a platform for meetings and video conferences. Though this test only focused on private messages, it’s not a stretch to think that important business calls are also monitored, or could be.

Everyone should always consider the possible consequences of sending information over the Internet, and realize that even giants like Microsoft are not protecting your online data security. There’s only one foolproof way to ensure your information is protected, and that’s to do it yourself, or seek out an expert to show you how.

John Sileo is a social online data security expert and professional speaker on building digital trust. His clients include the Department of Defense, Pfizer, Visa, and Homeland Security. See his recent media appearances on 60 Minutes, Anderson Cooper and Fox Business.

Posted by Identity Theft Speaker John Sileo in Online Privacy and tagged data security, online privacy.