Skype Banned by French Gov't

The French government has banned the use of Skype at research institutes and universities in France. Skype is a popular voice-over-Internet protocol (VoIP) that allows users on its network to speak to each other over the Internet for free. Skype can also be used to make and receive calls through standard phone lines for a fee, and to receive voicemail messages. French authorities have cited concerns over Skype’s “network security” as the main reason for the ban. Critics, however, contend that communications through Skype are sufficiently protected with the use of encryption technology. They argue that one reason for banning Skype may be the loss of revenue suffered by French competitors in the VoIP market.

This entry first appeared in the November 3, 2005 edition of lawsof.com. For a copy of the related article, click here.