NNSquad - Network Neutrality Squad
[ NNSquad ] Skype reportedly reverse-engineered: Skype threatens to crush open-source versions
Skype reportedly reverse-engineered: Skype threatens to crush
open-source versions
http://j.mp/kZLjWL (This message on Google Buzz)
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http://j.mp/kt72Ke (phoronix)
"Yesterday we reported on a freelance researcher reverse-engineering
the Skype protocol and beginning to write open-source code that would
work with this popular VoIP network. A representative of Skype has now
contacted Phoronix to inform us they will be taking "all necessary
steps" to stop this effort."
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A quote from Skype (whose new master is Microsoft, let's remember) is
quite telling:
"This unauthorized use of our application for malicious activities like
spamming/phishing infringes on Skype's intellectual property. We are
taking all necessary steps to prevent/defeat nefarious attempts to
subvert Skype's experience. Skype takes its users' safety and security
seriously and we work tirelessly to ensure each individual has the
best possible experience."
Taking a play from other opponents of free speech and open source, we
see Skype attempting to immediately associate open source
compatibility efforts with criminal activities such as
spamming/phishing ("safety and security"). I particularly enjoyed the
use of the word "nefarious" in the quote, which is one of my favorite
lexemes for invoking "Snidely Whiplash" bad-guy imagery.
--Lauren--
Lauren Weinstein (lauren@vortex.com): http://www.vortex.com/lauren
Co-Founder: People For Internet Responsibility: http://www.pfir.org
Founder:
- Network Neutrality Squad: http://www.nnsquad.org
- Global Coalition for Transparent Internet Performance: http://www.gctip.org
- PRIVACY Forum: http://www.vortex.com
Member: ACM Committee on Computers and Public Policy
Blog: http://lauren.vortex.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/laurenweinstein
Google Buzz: http://j.mp/laurenbuzz
Tel: +1 (818) 225-2800 / Skype: vortex.com