What Are These and How To Identify Them?
Usually such emails will inform users that there is a new Skype update available. The Scammers will nicely present some new features and functions that usually entice unsuspecting users to try or download the new Skype version. The sender of the email (whoever they are) will often require payments or subscriptions in order to avail the Skype update.
The truth is there is no new Skype update, or the update that they are referring to is the latest available version of Skype, which can be downloaded for free or without any charges. Scammers who are employing this deceptive method also usually use web addresses or domains with the word “skype” in it.
This is a sample of such emails, due to security reasons, part of the web address has been blurred. Scammers usually creates variations of these emails, but the approach and pattern are the same.
This is a sample of such emails, due to security reasons, part of the web address has been blurred. Scammers usually creates variations of these emails, but the approach and pattern are the same.
What Are the Risks?
If a user falls to this scam, he will be paying for something which he can actually get for free, and they will be exposing their payment details and sensitive/personal information to possible security risks. There is also a possibility that the program being suggested in such email is bundled with virus, trojans, spyware, or other possibly random elements, that may harm a user’s computer or become a threat to his online security.
How To Deal With Skype Fake Emails
Ignore such emails – full stop.
One thing to keep in mind is Skype generally doesn’t send emails informing their users of a new updates. So if you receive one claiming that Skype released a new version, it will be almost certain that it is a scam or a fake update. At the moment, the primary method of Skype to inform their users of new updates is through pop-up messages or notifications when a user opens Skype.
So if you received such emails, check and take note of the address of the sender, and the web address (URL) where the email is asking you to visit. However, don’t ever try to visit or check the website due to curiosity or any other reasons, as merely visiting such sites may bring unwanted effects to your computer. Then report the details and include a copy to the Skype customer service (contactus@skype.net).
What If a User Already Fell Victim To This Fraud?
First, you may need to uninstall and remove all traces of Skype in your computer. The procedure on how to completely uninstall Skype and how to back up your Skype files is pasted below. Then run a full anti-virus scan to remove any unwanted elements in your computer. After this, proceed to the Skype website and download the installer for the latest version of this software.
Then contact your bank and report the incident. Their customer service may most likely give you some advice and inform you of your possible options. Also report the details to Skype (refer to the email address mentioned above), so they can investigate further and can do the necessary actions.
Other Types of Skype Related Email Scams
Other types of email scams in Skype includes (1) claims that there are viruses in your computer and need to download a certain anti-virus software, which is actually a fake software, or a virus itself (2) notifications saying that your subscriptions has been cancelled, or someone added you in their Skype manager and send you funds/credits. Usually such are phishing emails which intends to obtain sensitive and important information from users (3) other common email scams formats such as you won a Skype related lottery, raffle, bank transfers, etc.
How to Can I Check Genuine Skype Updates?
If you wish to check if there is indeed a new Skype update, perhaps the easiest and safest way to do is to visit the Skype website directly (www.skype.com). There you can download a legitimate and safe copy of the Skype messenger application, free of charge.
Furthermore, to help your friends and other users to become aware and be protected from these deceiving Skype email scams, please share this article via Facebook, Twitter (see the Share to Facebook and Twitter icons below) or by giving them the corresponding link to this article.
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