Skype is one of the most popular apps for voice and video calls. And, like many widely used apps, it attracts a lot of scammers. It’s common to see headlines about fake job interviews and other Skype scams. Microsoft’s purchase of Skype in 2011 has also failed to endear the app to privacy-conscious users.
But privacy concerns shouldn’t force you to abandon Skype completely. Here’s how to optimize your Skype privacy settings to protect your privacy.
- Change your profile visibility.
- Limit who can see your profile picture.
- Get a local phone number from Skype.
- Disable read receipts.
- Change your online status.
- Delete suspicious or compromised Skype contacts.
- Block/report malicious or offensive contacts.
- Delete your Skype account.
We also recommend using a top-rated VPN like NordVPN to encrypt your internet traffic and hide your IP address, as Skype has previously leaked users’ IP addresses.
Our NordVPN review contains more information about the benefits of this VPN service.
Continue reading the article below for more information (including step-by-step instructions and screenshots) about how to adjust your Skype privacy settings.
Skype is a versatile communication app that supports instant messaging, Skype to Skype calls (video and audio) and calls to phone numbers. Like Zoom and Microsoft Teams, it allows users to make group calls.
Owned by Microsoft, Skype is an indispensable tool for millions of individuals and businesses around the globe. But using Skype comes with some privacy risks.
In this article, we’ll show you how to leverage Skype’s privacy settings and other cybersecurity tools, like a VPN, to protect your privacy and use Skype safely.
How to Manage Your Privacy Settings on Skype
Managing your privacy settings on Skype is crucial to improve your safety online.
While it offers a convenient way to stay connected with friends, family, and colleagues, Skype is rife with cybercriminals who use the platform to find potential victims. Moreover, Skype collects and stores user data, which it readily hands to law enforcement.
Below, we will walk you through managing your Skype privacy settings, so you can use the app without compromising your privacy and security.
Change your profile visibility on Skype
Limiting your profile visibility reduces your chances of appearing on the radar of cybercriminals on Skype. This setting controls who can see your Skype profile data, like your name, picture, and status message.
Here’s how to change your profile visibility on Skype:
- Tap on your profile picture in the top-left corner.
- In the pop-up window, scroll down to “Settings.”
- Tap “Contacts,” then tap on “Privacy.”
- Toggle the switch next to “Appear in search results” to turn it off.
Now, people who aren’t in your Contacts won’t be able to find you on Skype by searching your name. However, you can still share your profile and add users to your contact list.
Limit who can see your Skype profile picture
Your profile picture can reveal a lot about you. Scammers often pick victims based on demographics like age, gender, and ethnicity — especially in romance scams. That’s why we recommend limiting who can see your Skype profile picture.
Here’s how to change this setting:
- Tap on your profile picture in the top-left corner.
- In the pop-up window, scroll down to “Settings.”
- Select “Account & Profile,” then “Profile picture.”
- Choose “Contacts only” at the bottom.
Now, only people in your contact list can see your profile picture on Skype.
Get a local phone number from Skype
Using a local Skype number is an excellent way to safeguard your privacy. Instead of giving out your personal phone number to strangers or people you meet online, you can give them your Skype number.
If you’re using Skype for business, you can get a Skype phone number for work. This allows you to keep your personal phone number private and still be reachable.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting a Skype phone number.
- Tap on your profile picture in the top-left corner.
- In the pop-up window, scroll down to “Skype Number.”
- You’ll be redirected to Skype’s phone number webpage. Choose a phone number from 25 countries.
- Click on your preferred country. If you’re satisfied with the phone number, click continue. If you prefer a different location, change it at the bottom.
- Choose your billing period.
- Enter your billing details and hit Save to complete the purchase. Now, you have a Skype phone number.
Disable read receipts
Skype’s read receipts let others know that you’ve read their message. Disabling this feature gives you more privacy and relieves you of the pressure to respond to messages immediately.
Here’s how to disable read receipts on Skype:
- Tap on your profile picture in the top-left corner.
- In the pop-up window, scroll down and tap on “Settings.”
- Tap “Messaging” in the Settings window, then toggle the switch next to “Read Receipts” off.
Now, Skype won’t display a miniature version of your profile picture under messages you’ve read.
Change your Skype online status
Skype allows you to change your online status — the options are Active, Away, Do not disturb, and Invisible. While this setting may seem insignificant, it can be useful for victims of cyberstalking and people who don’t want to broadcast that they’re online to others. The ability to control your availability on Skype gives you some privacy.
Here’s how to change your Skype online status:
- On the Skype app, tap on your profile picture in the top-left corner.
- In the pop-up menu, tap on your current online status.
- From the drop-down, tap on the online status you want to set.
You’ve successfully changed your Skype online status!
Delete suspicious or compromised Skype contacts
If a contact sends you a phishing message or you believe a particular Skype account may be compromised, delete them from your Skype contacts.
Skype has a contact limit of 250; once you reach this limit, you can no longer add new contacts. So, deleting suspicious contacts is a good idea, especially if they threaten your privacy.
Here’s how to delete Skype contacts:
- On Skype’s main window, tap on “Contacts.”
- Right-click on the contact you would like to delete, then hit “Delete.”
- Confirm that you would like to delete the contact.
That’s it! You’ve deleted the contact from your contact list.
Block or report malicious or offensive contacts
If you receive phishing messages or unwanted calls from a particular person on Skype, blocking and reporting them is an effective way to stop unwanted communication and protect others. You can always choose to unblock blocked users.
We also recommend blocking and reporting contacts that engage in inappropriate or abusive behavior. This will protect you and other potential victims from harm.
Here’s how to block and report a user on Skype.
- On the Skype app, tap on “Contacts.”
- Right-click on the user you would like to block, then tap “Block.”
- If you want to report the user, toggle the switch next to “Report abuse from this person.”
- Select a reason for blocking the user, then tap “Block and report” at the bottom.
Blocked contacts are removed from your Contacts and recent chat list. And when you report a person, Skype checks if there have been other reports about the same user and may take down the account if there’s evidence of repeated abuse.
Delete your Skype account
If you’ve stopped using Skype and switched to other platforms, it’s essential to delete your account to protect your privacy and prevent unwanted messages or calls. Deleting your account prevents scammers and other unauthorized parties from accessing the personal information on your profile or hacking your account and reading your messages.
Here’s how to delete your Skype account:
- Tap on your profile picture in the top-left corner.
- In the pop-up window, scroll down and select “Settings.”
- Tap “Account & Profile,” then click “Close Your Account” at the bottom.
- You’ll be required to provide your Skype login to confirm the decision.
Secure Your Privacy on Skype
Optimizing your Skype privacy settings can reduce your exposure to phishing attacks but won’t protect you from sophisticated malware. We recommend using these cybersecurity tools to bolster your online security further.
1. VPN
A VPN will protect your privacy and keep your Skype conversations private. Skype calls, and messages are encrypted. However, your IP address and location can still be tracked, which could compromise your privacy. A VPN masks your IP address, making it more difficult for anyone to track your location.
A VPN also adds an extra layer of security by encrypting your internet traffic. This protects you from hackers and other malicious actors who may attempt to intercept your Skype calls or messages. And, if you’re in a country where access to Skype is blocked, like Oman, Lebanon, or Qatar, a VPN can help you bypass restrictions and access the app.
Using a VPN can impact the quality of your Skype calls or messages, so it’s essential to choose a reliable VPN service. NordVPN is our top pick. It provides high speeds and advanced security, allowing you to enjoy long, secure Skype calls without disruptions.
- Fast and large worldwide network of VPN servers
- Perfect for privacy and streaming
- Trusted by many, with over 14 million users
Check out our NordVPN review to learn more about this VPN.
2. Antivirus software
Antivirus software is important to protect your device from malware and other threats. Antivirus is essential for every Skype user as the app is often used to spread malware. This is so common that there’s a generic name for malware spread through Skype — Skype Virus.
There are various Skype Viruses, but Goo.gl Skype Virus and Skype.exe are two of the most popular:
- Goo.gl Skype Virus: This virus is spread through shortened links that direct you to a suspicious website where you’re tricked into downloading a malicious file. Once the malware infects your system, it opens a gateway for further infections.
- Skype.exe: This spyware can access sensitive information from local browsers, open the clipboard, and track keyboard strokes.
Goo.gl Skype is usually sent from a compromised Skype account. The recipients, who may be unaware that the account has been compromised, would click on the phishing link and download the malicious files.
To protect your device from these and other Skype Viruses, we recommend using an antivirus with real-time protection like Norton 360.
Our Norton 360 tests show that this antivirus blocks and alerts you about malicious files and apps before they compromise your device.
3. Password manager
Using a secure password on Skype (and other online platforms) is important to protect your account from unauthorized access and keep your personal information private.
If your Skype password is weak, your account can easily be compromised. This can leave your personal information and private conversations in the hands of malicious actors. It can also put your contacts at risk. Stolen Skype accounts are sold on dark web marketplaces.
Using a strong and unique password manager can protect your Skype account and help to safeguard your privacy. 1Password is our favorite password manager. It’s affordable, easy to use, and offers strong encryption along with other security features.
Our 1Password review contains more information about this service.
Skype for Web vs. Skype App: Which is More Secure?
Skype for Web, launched in June 2015, allows users to access Skype through a web browser without downloading the Skype app. It’s an excellent option for users who want to use Skype on the go.
You risk encountering the same threats to your privacy whether you’re using the desktop/mobile Skype app or Skype for Web. You can secure your privacy by optimizing your Skype privacy settings and using our recommended cybersecurity tools.
Practicing good cyber hygiene is also important. For example, avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading files from unknown contacts.
Skype Scams to Look Out For
Skype is one of the most popular communication apps, especially in the corporate world. For this reason, the platform is a prime target for scammers and other cybercriminals. To protect yourself from Skype scams, it’s important to know what to look out for. Here are some of the most popular scams on Skype.
1. Romance scams
Romance scams on Skype typically involve a fraudster creating a fake profile and using it to initiate contact with potential victims. Scammers use fake pictures, names, and biographical details to create a convincing persona and lure unsuspecting victims.
Once they establish contact, the fraudster will try to build a rapport with the victim. They often use flattery, compliments, and emotional manipulation to create a sense of trust and intimacy with the victim.
When the victim has been “groomed,” the fraudster will typically start to request money. They may claim to be in a difficult financial situation or ask for money to pay for their travel expenses to visit the victim.
2. Tech support scam
Hackers pretend to be tech support representatives in tech support scams and offer to fix your device remotely. They may reach out via Skype instant messages or calls, claiming they have detected a virus on your computer or an issue with your operating system.
The scammer will ask you to download remote desktop software, giving them access to your computer. Once they have access, they may show you fake error messages, logs, or system files and ask you to pay for their services to fix the issue.
Sometimes, scammers may also ask for your login credentials, credit card information, or personal information, which they can use for identity theft and other fraudulent activities.
It is important to remember that legitimate tech support representatives will only contact you if you request their services. Also, they will never ask you for your login credentials or credit card information and rarely offer to fix your computer remotely.
3. Webcam blackmail scam
Webcam blackmail scam, also known as “sextortion,” typically involves a fraudster threatening to release inappropriate content or embarrassing photos or videos of the victim unless they pay a fee.
The scam usually begins with the fraudster contacting a victim and tricking them into engaging in sexual activity on camera (which is secretly recorded). They can also get victims to send nude pictures. The fraudster then threatens to share this video or photo with the victim’s family, friends, and colleagues unless they pay a ransom.
4. Job offer scam
Job offer scams typically involve a fraudster posing as a recruiter or employer and offering a job that seems too good to be true. They may ask victims for personal details, such as their passport numbers. They may also ask victims to pay a fee for processing their application.
Scammers post fake job offerings on LinkedIn and other job boards to entice victims. Always research the company behind a job posting before applying.
5. Phishing Scams
Phishing scams are all too common on Skype. In these scams, fraudsters trick victims into providing sensitive information or downloading malicious software. Scammers use various schemes to snare unsuspecting victims. Some of the most common phishing scams on Skype involve malicious links, fake antivirus software, lottery prize scams, and fake customer support requests.
To avoid falling victim to these scams, be cautious of unsolicited messages, verify the identity of the person or business you’re communicating with, and avoid clicking on suspicious links.
Conclusion: Secure Your Settings on Skype
Skype’s privacy settings offer you a range of options to control your personal information and protect your privacy. By customizing your privacy settings, you can limit who can contact you, manage your profile information, and decide what to share with others.
Check out the articles below for information about how to optimize your privacy settings on other apps and social media platforms:
- Facebook Privacy Settings
- LinkedIn Privacy Settings
- Twitter Privacy Settings
- YouTube Privacy Settings
- Instagram Privacy Settings
- Snapchat Privacy Settings
- WhatsApp Privacy Settings
Do you have particular questions about optimizing your Skype privacy settings? Check out the FAQ below for answers to common questions.
Skype privacy settings allow you to manage your account and control how people can interact with your account. For example, you can limit who can see your profile, change your online status, and disable read receipts. It’s important to optimize your Skype privacy settings if you’d like to use it in a safe way.
There are several ways to protect your privacy on Skype. Here are some tips to get you started:
- Optimize your privacy settings: Take the time to review and adjust the Skype privacy settings.
- Use a VPN: We recommend using NordVPN to hide your IP address and prevent snooping eyes from tracking your location and online activities.
- Use an antivirus: Skype is a hotbed for malware. Users are often tricked into downloading malware. An antivirus like Norton 360 will shield you from these threats.
Skype calls and messages are encrypted, which means third parties can’t intercept them. However, if you’re not using a secure password, threat actors can hack your account and access your messages.
Skype uses end-to-end encryption and has various privacy settings that allow you to secure your account and keep your calls and messages private. However, the app is rife with cybercriminals looking to snare unsuspecting victims. To keep your Skype account safe and your conversations private, it’s important to practice proper cyber hygiene and optimize your Skype privacy settings.
We recommend deleting your Skype account if you’re no longer using it. This will prevent scammers from accessing the personal information in your profile and accessing your private messages if your account gets hacked. Here’s how to delete Skype:
- Tap on your profile picture in the top-left corner, and choose “Settings.”
- Select “Account & Profile” and choose “Close Your Account.”
- Enter your Skype login to confirm the decision.
Microsoft owns Skype. The company purchased Skype for $8.5 billion in 2011. Microsoft has made several changes to the app like retiring Skype for Business and changing the interface of the app significantly.
