Skype is a well-known Microsoft telecommunications software that allows people to interact via video and audio calls through the internet. It has been widely used since its initial release in 2003. “I’m more used to Skype. I was first introduced to Skype, so [it] is the ‘OG’ app [for me],” says Jolin. ‘OG’ is an abbreviated slang term that used to mean “Original Gangster”, but has been simplified to mean “original” or “old school”.

Unlike Teams and Zoom, Skype calls are completely free as long as users communicate within the app. Ms Cynthia Tan, an Accounting Manager who has been using Skype for over a decade, says that she “will continue to use it as [long as] it is free”. 

Video and audio calls on Skype can accommodate 50 people at maximum. Skype has a fair usage policy which caps each user’s audio calls at 10 hours a day, and video calls at four hours each call. Skype encrypts all communication such as voice, video, messages and files between users, preventing unauthorised parties from eavesdropping on conversations. “[My] company uses Skype as it is one of the safer platforms to use,” says Ms Tan. “I don’t see much security being compromised when I am using it.”

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“There [is] no software that can [absolutely] prevent all phishing attempts and malware or ransomware attacks,” says Mr Ng. Hence, users should be mindful of the information they share, including links and app permissions, and make a conscious effort to secure their privacy with strong passwords.