With an estimated number of users surpassing 2-billion people in the next several years, Microsoft’s Skype is without a doubt standing among the world’s most popular communication applications. Some even say that it continues to increase its customer database by around 8 percent per month. When an application becomes more widely used, developers tend to offer better features and generally more robust security capabilities. But as we know Windows and other things Microsoft creates, have a lot of security holes. That being said, you should not solely depend on the built-in or default options.
There are many things you can do to improve Skype security or at least minimize the chances of someone taking advantage of your accounts irresponsibly. Here are some tips to make your Skype communication activities even more secure.
1. Passwords
It is difficult to overstate the importance of creating a unique password to access every online account including Skype. If hackers actually do want to gain access to your accounts, they will first use the list of common passwords for example dates of birth, nicknames, the sequence of numbers or letters, your name spelled backward, and so on. Just like with any other type of application or website that asks for login credentials for access, please choose a unique strong password for your Skype. Some people say that a strong password is hard to memorize, but that is indeed the point. You should be the only person in the world who knows the right combination of characters, symbols, and numbers. If needs be, write the passwords down on a piece of paper and leave the paper in a safe place at home.
2. Virus protection
Not only do viruses damage your computers, but also steal personal information stored in the hard drive. To prevent this, take the following precautions:
Always use antivirus to check any file you receive via the Internet. Make sure you scan the file for malware before (not after) you open it. The rule applies whether you receive the file on Skype or other applications. Keep your antivirus software updated.
Use personal firewall. It does not matter if you connect to the Internet via a private or public network, a firewall is mandatory.
Once you decide to install an operating system or application, be committed to keeping everything updated with the latest security patches as soon as they are available.
Only download and install antivirus and firewall along with all updates from their official websites. Even if third-party sources claim to be trustworthy, the official websites are much more reliable options.
3. Updates
Skype has been around for more than 16 years, and the developers keep on providing improvements such as security enhancements, better stability, and bug fixes on a regular basis. To make sure you have the latest defense against malicious attacks of any sort, get the latest update each time one is available.
Skype never sends an email notification that prompts you to update to the latest version of the application. If you receive such email, do not click any link or attachment included. You should only download and update the application from the official Skype website and application-stores on mobile devices. Microsoft does not distribute Skype through any other site.
4. Privacy settings
Most people tend to ignore or are too reluctant to tweak any application’s privacy settings just because they want to use it right away after installing. Some applications’ privacy settings seem to be deliberately buried under multiple clicks and options, but this is not the case with Skype. For security reasons, one of the first things you should do before using Skype is to tweak the privacy settings.
After you sign-in, click on the Skype tab on the top left corner of the application windows and choose the Privacy options on your account page. Privacy window will open where you will be able to change the settings. It is a simple way of choosing whether you want to receive calls, video chats, share screens, and IMs from anyone or people in your contact list only. Especially for “video and share screens” you even get the option to receive none. Other settings are online status visibility, targeted ads, cookies, and history.
5. Skype history
By default, Skype archives all conversations and calls you make on the application. There are many reasons why you don’t want any application to store information about your activities. Regardless of why you want to delete the data, Skype offers an easy way to do it. The option to delete the data is also available in the Privacy window. You can even disable the history feature completely and never bother yourself with deleting it each time you want to end any conversation.
6. VPN
One of Skype’s best features is the built-in encryption for calls, video chats, instant messaging, and file transfers. Just because there is built-in encryption, it does not mean you cannot make it even more. As a matter of fact, Skype actually recommends the use of a VPN to separate voice and data traffic for better call quality. Using a reliable VPN is like placing a second barrier to prevent eavesdropping or any other kind security breach, without sacrificing speed and sound clarity. Experts explain how to use a VPN for Skype.
7. Beware of suspicious contact requests
Cybercriminals are getting smarter by the day. Many of them take advantage of unwary Skype users by sending files or messages that contain malicious attachments. In some cases, the message even obviously asks users to provide login credentials for bogus reasons. A typical method is to disguise messages to make them look like they are sent by legitimate sources or companies such as Skype and Microsoft themselves. One thing is certain: there is no reason that Microsoft and Skype ask for your credentials.
8. Avoid clicking unknown URLs
Some scammers use Skype to send you a link and suggest that you should click the link for various reasons such as updates, credit discounts, verification, and so on. Always check whether the sender’s name indeed is Skype or Microsoft’s official accounts. If you think you’ve already clicked a malicious link, change your passwords immediately.
9. Skype credits
If you want to use Skype to make phone calls, you probably have to purchase Skype credits. As always, do not trust any third-party merchant that claims to be selling any kind of Skype products. Only purchase Skype credits from the official Skype website. In the event problem occurs with the purchase, Skype’s customer service agent may ask for your order details or ticket numbers, but never passwords and full credit card data.
10. Merge Skype and Microsoft accounts
Microsoft has been providing the option to link Skype with your Microsoft account for security reasons. After merging both accounts, unfortunately, Microsoft still keeps your original Skype credentials active in case you need to access the application with the old credentials. It is not a big deal in theory unless someone gains access to your Skype account and steal the information. To be on the safe side, just merge both accounts. Here is how:
- Go to the Microsoft website.
- Sign-in using Skype name and password.
- Enter the email address you want to merge with the Skype account. Click Next.
If you have linked the accounts in the past, you’ll need to update the information by entering your Microsoft account passwords, then click OK to complete the process.
If you have any doubt …
Many times cybercriminals use the most convincing way to trick Skype users to fall for the trap. There are instances when fraudulent chats or calls appear legit for example a message saying that your account has been compromised and therefore you need to perform urgent actions by clicking a link attached. If you have any doubt, call or send message to Skype representative and ask for confirmation.
