'Persistently unclear' Skype privacy rules need clarification, Web user groups tell Microsoft
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In an open letter to Microsoft and Skype leaders that went up on the Internet on Thursday, advocacy groups call for increased disclosure about the security features and privacy rules that apply to Skype.
The letter says the popular phone service, which allows very low-cost international calls and video-conferencing to be made via the Internet, presents unknown risks of government surveillance, as well as other privacy and security concerns, due to “persistently unclear and confusing statements about the confidentiality of Skype conversations,” CNET News reports.
Microsoft, which owns Skype, says it is reviewing the letter. A Skype page links to various privacy policies.
Related coverage:
InfoWorld: “Does Skype share user data with the feds? Privacy advocates demand to know”
Risk Assessment/Security & Hactivism (Ars Technica, July 2012): “Skype bug sends messages to to unintended recipients”
Slate (July 2012): “Skype Won’t Say Whether It Can Eavesdrop on Your Conversations”
