Use Skype Safely
Skype is a web application that allows members to do unlimited calls (i.e. conference and video), instant messaging and screen sharing with other Skype contacts. The paid subscription enhances services with the addition of calls to landlines, cell phones, call forwarding, caller ID and voice mail. VoIP services have become very popular because of its capabilities of calling and instant messaging, which makes knowing how to use it safely very important.
Steps
- Don't post personal information in your Skype profile (e.g. email address, birthday, phone numbers, location or full name.)
- Never reply to any instant messages or contact, phone call, video call or screen sharing requests from someone you don't know.
- Never accept a file from someone you don't know, including email attachments.
- Choose a strong password for your Skype account. Hackers try lists of common passwords and password variations to crack passwords.
- Keep an eye out for any emails posing as Skype and notifying you of available security updates. Skype will prompt users to install updates through a popup dialog box, not through an email.
- Never reply to requests for private data (e.g. financial details, login, and password that are sent through emails, embedded links in emails or chats.)
- Never reply to emails that incite urgency and provoke impulsive actions. Skype warns against emails stating, "Unless you click this link your Skype account will be disabled," or "Your account has been comprised, click here to view details."
- Run an up-to-date antivirus program in the background and always scan any received files from both contacts and strangers.
- Know Skype rules on age. By default, Skype Restricts the privacy settings of users under 16 years old to ensure maximum protection.
- Never click on a link within a Skype message whether chat or email Unless you have: Checked to ensure that the URL is a legitimate site or Verified the identity of the sender of the message.
- Consider using a parental control tool like Skypito to manage who your kids communicate with. Skypito requires parents to approve all of their child's Skype contacts, and allows them to restrict calls and chat with strangers.
Tips
- When adding/accepting a friend request, be certain you know them personally.
Things You'll Need
- Skype Account
- Internet Access
- Desktop Computer, Laptop, Cell Phone, Mobile Internet Device Or Portable Media Device
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