Skype testing end-to-end encryption for private chats

Microsoft announced that end-to-end encrypted conversations are coming to Skype. Microsoft is integrating the open source Signal protocol, used by WhatsApp, Google, Facebook and Signal itself, into test versions of Skype as 'Private Conversations' for end-to-end encrypted communications.

"Skype is one of the most popular applications in the world, and we’re excited that Private Conversations in Skype will allow more users to take advantage of Signal Protocol’s strong encryption properties for secure communication," Signal developer Joshua Lund wrote.

"With Private Conversations, you can have end-to-end encrypted Skype audio calls and send text messages or files like images, audio, or videos, using the industry standard Signal Protocol by Open Whisper Systems. The content of these conversations will be hidden in the chat list as well as in notifications to keep the information you share privately," Microsoft Support Engineer, Ellen Kilbourne wrote in a post.

You can initiate the new feature by selecting “New Private Conversation” from Skype's "Compose" menu, or from another user's profile. The addition of end-to-end encryption will allow Skype users to ensure that their audio calls, text messages, and files remain as secure as possible.

Private Conversations are currently available for preview only for Skype Insiders, the service's beta tester community who can try the feature with Skype version 8.13.76.8 for iOS, Android, Linux, Mac, and Windows Desktop.