Every month around 300 million people use Skype, this is how it is one of the most popular chat platforms in the world. Now, these users would be able to benefit from an important privacy protection which is Skype end-to-end encryption that Microsoft announced on January 2018.It has taken a while for Skype to offer this security feature, but it is better late than never.By this announcement Skype joins the ranks of other chat platforms that offer end-to-end encryption, including Apple’s iMessage and Facebook’s Messenger.In order to make this protection happen Skype will use the robust, open-source Signal Protocol to implement the end-to-end encryption.
In the early 2010s some users showed concerns that Skype may allow third-party and government to access users data and conversations so chatter began to avoid it. Now private conversation and Skype end-to-end encryption makes that sort of risk impossible.
Skype end-to-end encryption has recently been available for all windows desktops iOS ,Mac ,Android and Linux users.This is only provided for one conversation per device at the same time through a feature called Private Conversations.
How does Skype end-to-end encryption provides safety?
In Skype end-to-end encryption feature both communication channel and stored messages are secure, by the mean only those who where involved in a communication can read the stored messages on the server and no one else can access them.
Is end-to-end encryption enabled by default?
It has taken Microsoft far too long to add end-to-end encryption, and even now it has some restrictions which is not considering end-to-end encryption as a default. However, we think this is just the beginning, and Microsoft will add end-to-end encryption to Skype as the default for all conversations and users before too long.
How to enable Skype end-to-end encryption as private conversation?
Skype new private conversation
Install the latest version of Skype.Skype end-to-end encryption as private conversations is not available by default.In order to use Skype private conversation you should select the option “new private conversation” from reception’s profile or the compose menu to send an invitation which will be valid for seven days.The invitation will expire if they don’t accept by then.On desktop, you can do this by clicking on the new Chat+ button, then selecting New Private Conversation. You’ll also be able to start a private conversation with someone you’re already talking to by selecting New Private Conversation from their profile. So in this particular conversation calls ,messages and all media transmissions would be encrypted until the end of session.You can switch between a Skype and private conversation by hitting the Skype or Private tabs up at the top. The private conversation can be switched to another device, but anything sent and received will be tied to whatever device is currently being used.There are some limitations to private conversations. You won’t be able to edit a message or forward a file. Although Skype would still be able to have the information about when the conversations occur and how long they last, so it’s your decision to trust Skype with your meta data or not.
How to end a Skype private conversation?
In order to end the private conversation first click on the chat header.Then go to Chat settings and select End private conversation.From that window, click End conversation. If you want to start another private conversation with that person,you must send them a new invitation.
How to delete a Skype private conversation?
In order to delete the private conversation first click the chat header.Then go to Chat settings and select Delete private conversation.From that window, click Delete. This will remove messages in that conversation from your device.
