eSAFETY GUIDE

Skype

13+
minimum age according to Skype
13+ minimum age according to Skype

What is Skype?

Skype is an audio and video calling app that allows you to video chat, instant message and make voice calls with other people, anywhere in the world, in real time. Skype can be used to make private or group video and audio calls, stream live video, add live subtitles, translate conversations, record calls, share screens, send text messages and share content like photos, links and files. Skype is owned by Microsoft.

Skype uses standard end-to-end encryption for privacy and can be integrated with other Microsoft applications. In workplaces, it can be used for hosting remote meetings, delivering online presentations, teleconferencing and text message chat over internal networks.

Bing is available in Skype chat, bringing the functionality of an AI search chatbot to Skype.

Skype is available as desktop and mobile apps, from web browsers and Xbox One. Basic accounts are free, with subscription options offered for Skype-to-phone calling however this feature does not replace the need for a telephone and cannot be used to make emergency calls.

Platforms: Windows, Mac OS X, Linux, Android, iPhone, Windows 10 Mobile, iPad, Android tablets, Xbox One.

Website: skype.comExternal link[https://www.skype.com/en/]

Apps: AndroidExternal link[https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.skype.raider&referrer=utm_source%3Dscomphonedownload], Apple iOSExternal link[https://apps.apple.com/app/apple-store/id304878510] 

How do people use Skype?

Learn more about the benefits and risks associated with how people use online audio and video calling and messaging apps like Skype.

Skype is used for: content sharing[https://www.esafety.gov.au/key-issues/esafety-guide/content-sharing], encrypted[https://www.esafety.gov.au/key-issues/esafety-guide/encrypted], in-app purchasing[https://www.esafety.gov.au/key-issues/esafety-guide/in-app-purchasing], live streaming[https://www.esafety.gov.au/key-issues/esafety-guide/live-streaming], messaging/online chat[https://www.esafety.gov.au/key-issues/esafety-guide/messaging-online-chat], online relationships[https://www.esafety.gov.au/key-issues/esafety-guide/online-relationships], photo/video sharing[https://www.esafety.gov.au/key-issues/esafety-guide/photo-video-sharing], screen capture[https://www.esafety.gov.au/key-topics/online-tools-and-features/screen-capture], video calling[https://www.esafety.gov.au/key-issues/esafety-guide/video-calling] and voice chat.[https://www.esafety.gov.au/key-issues/esafety-guide/voice-chat]

How do I report inappropriate content, security concerns or block a user?

These links are provided by Skype:

  • Report abuseExternal link[https://support.skype.com/en/faq/FA34809/how-do-i-block-unblock-or-report-abuse-in-skype]
    Learn about how to block and report users on Skype for mobile and Skype for desktop/web.
  • Report an issueExternal link[https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/msrc/faqs-report-an-issue?rtc=1]
    Learn how to report Skype security concerns to Microsoft or what to do if your Skype account is being compromised.
  • Abuse and spamExternal link[https://support.skype.com/en/skype/all/privacy-security/abuse-spam/]
    Learn how to deal with abuse and spam in Skype.

How can you protect your personal information?

These links are provided by Skype:

These links are provided by Skype:

  • Help centreExternal link[https://support.skype.com/en/skype/all/]
    Offers a range of general help, safety and security information.
  • Avoiding scamsExternal link[https://support.skype.com/en/faq/FA10921/what-is-social-engineering]
    Learn about social engineering, how to avoid scams and what to do if you’ve been scammed on Skype.
  • Microsoft Terms of UseExternal link[https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/legal/intellectualproperty/copyright/default.aspx]
    Outlines the rules you agree to by using Skype.
  • Recovering a hacked accountExternal link[https://support.microsoft.com/en-gb/help/10494/microsoft-account-recover-hacked-compromised-account]
    Steps to follow if you think your Microsoft account has been hacked.

Last updated: 04/06/2024

The eSafety Guide helps you find out how to protect your personal information and report harmful content on common social media, games, apps and sites. Entries are for information only and are not reviews or endorsements by eSafety. Before choosing to use any online service or platform it’s best to:

  • do your own research to understand the risks and benefits
  • check the age rating and requirements
  • consider privacy
  • check the permissions and other settings
  • check the in-app reporting options.

If you are a parent or carer who is deciding whether a child should be allowed to use an online service or platform, you can also:

  • consider your child's readiness for the types of content and experiences they might encounter
  • help them understand what to do if they need help
  • provide ongoing support and monitoring, for example through regular check-ins with your child
  • agree to some rules about use of each service or platform.

To find out more, you can read the App checklist for parentsExternal link, as well as information about parental controls in social media, games and appsExternal link and mental wellbeing resources for familiesExternal link.