There are a lot of scammers online, and Skype is not exempted from their devious ploys. Here are Skype Safety information and tips that might just save your online identity and more.
These online scammers are sure mischievous and annoying; for one thing, they spam people. They send messages through e-mail or instant message, usually in the form of advertisements. Seems harmless? Not really. These spams may contain worms or malwares that would infect your computer.
There are also those who phish. Not all spammers are just in it for selling, most are actually after your personal information or your credit card details. This type of spam comes in the form of messages like “If you don’t click this link, your Skype will be deactivated” or “Go to this link and win 9,000 Skype credits!” It sounds tempting, but suspicious. Some would even trick you into believing that they are a bank employee innocently requesting for your personal information. These scammers always play the “urgency” card, so don’t give in!
To help out fellow Skype users, we’ve listed down the things that you should watch our for to keep your Skype safety checked:
Hyperlinks
Always think twice before clicking a link. These hyperlinks usually go to websites that download viruses or adwares to your computer. Even if the link was sent by a friend, ask what it’s about before clicking away. It’s safer to type in the web address yourself, or search for it in Google. These links can also lead you to fake sites. Once you key in your username and password, the system will save the information and use it for deceitful deeds.
Incoming Files
These are almost similar to links, except that these files are directly sent to you through Skype and accepting it carelessly can pose a dangerous threat to your computer. Don’t accept files unless you’re sure of what it’s about.
Contact Requests
Only add those that you know. Skype is a great way to socialize, but there a lot of people who take advantage of the clueless. They might spam you with messages, lure you into scams or worse, try to be friendly with you and get your personal information.
Bottom line is — filter who you add or accept. Those who are not in your contact list cannot talk to you through Skype or check out your status until you accept them.
Guard Yourself!
You must know that everything in Skype is visible to the online public, so take the necessary steps in protecting your privacy.
- First off, don’t put personal information in your profile. If you don’t want people sending you random e-mails, don’t leave your e-mail address in your Skype account.
- Secondly, adjust your privacy options. You can do this by clicking ‘Tools’, then ‘Options’. You can then click ‘Privacy’ to manage who can contact you.
- Third, don’t share your password or your credit card information to anyone. Don’t give it out, even if someone poses to be a Skype employee. Always use a secure website when keying in such important information.
- Lastly, know how to Block. It may seem cruel, but it’s necessary. There are people who would constantly pester you. To save yourself from the hassle, just block them immediately. You can also report such users if needed.
Be Vigilant
There are a lot of anti-spam and anti-virus software available, but the best preventive measure from not being an online victim is to be vigilant. It never hurts to be extra careful, especially on the internet.
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