Skype To Improve Workplace Security

Skype is planning to enter into a partnership with a security company in an effort to help organisations gain control over usage of its Internet telephony service at work.

The partnership is with FaceTime Communications, a California-based security company which manufactures software and appliances to monitor and secure the use of instant message tools on business networks.

Whie Skype has major security advantages - all calls are encrypted and there is not central server which could be attacked - it poses a problem for IT administrators because it can find ways to make a net connection despite strong firewall controls on corporate networks.

Difficulty in controlling Skype usage by employees can cause compliance problems in industries were security is vital such as in the financial sector. Skype provides instant message functionality and in the US, Securities and Exchange Commission regulations require that all instant messages be logged.

The security partnership is a key element in Skype’s strategy to position its Internet telephony application as a business tool.

Over 30% of Skype’s 171 million users are business users, and there is a huge range of Skype equipment available for use.