Skype protects and maintains your online security and peace of mind. This means that it will not display unwanted and intrusive advertising, or allow any malware or spyware to operate.
When you download Skype you can rest assured that that is all you'll be downloading.
No adware - no intrusive adverts.
No spyware - nothing logs your online activity.
No malware - no programs that could adversely affect your computer.
What is adware?
Adware is a type of software that makes money by automatically delivering unwanted advertisements, usually as pop-ups. Normally it is very hard, if not impossible, to turn off the adware causing the problem.
From time-to-time Skype presents promotions that may be of interest to you. If you don't want these to appear you can turn them off - go to Tools > Options > Notifications > Alerts & Messages and uncheck the relevant box.
What is spyware?
Spyware is a type of software that automatically installs itself on your computer, usually without your knowledge, and covertly collects and transmits data about your computer use. For example, spyware may monitor your behaviour and pass on details of your online activity (for example, the sites you visit, usernames and passwords) to a third party for use in identity theft and fraud.
Skype does not allow any spyware to be installed.
What is malware?
Malware (or malicious software) relates to software that is designed to infiltrate or damage a computer's operating system or other programs. These are often described as computer viruses, worms or Trojan horses. They sometimes come combined with other software and load in the background.
Skype contains no malicious content and it's best practice to only download Skype from skype.com to ensure this.
