“How can I stop Skype loading automatically? As soon as I boot up there’s this guy bugging me about getting his invoice paid.”
The simple answer to this query from a small business client was “pay him”. The diplomatic, repeat business answer was to discuss the Skype privacy settings.
Rather than cut yourself off, Skype allows users to block other users from contacting you. Either right click their Skype Name and select the option Block This User from the menu, or go Tools/Options/Privacy/Blocked users. In this latter method, which allows access to edit your entire blocked user list, select the phone pest from the drop down menu or enter their Skype name or their phone number, then click Save. When blocked, the caller will no longer be able to reach you via Skype voice, SMS text message and chat or see whether you are online.
The Privacy Settings tab, meanwhile, allows users further options to manage your Skype presence. For example, you can elect to allow calls only from people who are in your Contacts list.
But bear in mind the effects changing privacy settings may have if your email signature includes a Skype call me button or is used as a link on a website. Opting only to be called by people in your Contacts list will also block a genuine business contact or customer who isn't in your Skype Contacts list. The other point to remember here is if you log in to Skype from more than one machine you'll need to make and save the changes on each computer.
Sometimes, though, if you simply want half an hour of peace and quiet to concentrate, the quickest, simplest method is to alter your Skype status which determines how you appear to other users.
User status is controlled by right clicking the Skype icon in the system tray and selecting Change status, or you can go File/Change online status from within the Skype window. There are eight status options to choose from:
· Online - all non-blocked authorised users can see you are online.
· Skype Me - you are up for a natter with anyone from Skypedom.
· Away – you’re connected to Skype and away from your desk.
· Not available – you’re connected to Skype but not taking calls.
· Do not disturb - you’re connected to Skype but don’t call unless the building is on fire.
· Invisible – no one can see you.
· Offline - only reachable by landline or mobile phone.
· Set up call forwarding - if you haven’t already done so, this is an option to have Skype calls routed to another device or to Skype voicemail. Requires Skype credit and involves call forwarding charges.
Your online status remains that way until you change it, even the next time you boot up. Skype, like any kind of phone, can be switched off. It’s just another tool, albeit a lot more interesting than a saw or hammer.
