Skype Security Risks
Skype is a computer application which allows users to make audio and video calls and chat over the Internet. Over 500 million users use Skype, which uses Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology and has little overhead and bandwidth costs. However, like many other Internet technologies, Skype poses some security risks when it comes to privacy, hacking and user awareness that Skype users should take into consideration.
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Encryption
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When two users establish a Skype network connection to each other, they share a unique encryption key. During the conversation, each computer encrypts and decrypts packet data using the key. Skype uses the same network for every user, so it's possible for a hacker to monitor traffic and intercept packets. If the hacker also has the encryption key, he or she will be able to decipher the information, but Skype uses different protocols to send the keys and packets, making it twice as difficult for hackers to acquire both.
Supernodes
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If the Skype network cannot establish a direct connection between two end users, it will use intermediate Skype-enabled computers, called "supernodes," to redirect the traffic. It is possible for a supernode to monitor the traffic it sends and receives, but as it does not actually decrypt the data while possessing it, the supernode would need the encryption key for the data. Skype security protocols do not allow for a supernode to have the key, but like with any security protocol, a flawed implementation is always possible.
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Updates
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Hackers are constantly trying to find new ways to break into networks and steal data. When the Skype developers detect a new way in which the program's security is at risk, they will immediately begin working on a patch or an update to correct the issue. When they complete it, they release it to Skype users and attempt to notify them through the program, as well as by providing the update for download on the Skype website. However, some users might not download the update, leaving their computers at risk.
File Sharing
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Skype allows users to transfer files to each other. While the sender and receiver will often know and trust each other, this does not mean the files are not corrupted. Unlike some file sharing programs and email clients, Skype does not have a built-in virus protection, so it does not scan files for infections while they transfer. This leaves the responsibility to the recipient to use his or her own antivirus program to scan the file after it is received. However, this does not affect the integrity of the Skype network as a whole.
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