anavem.
S
Medium RiskWindowsLegitimateCommonly Abused
Skype.exeCOMMUNICATION APP

Skype.exe - Skype Communication Security Analysis

Skype.exe is the Microsoft Skype communication client. Attackers target Skype for credential theft, malware distribution via file sharing, and potential C2 communication. Skype's trusted status and network access make it an attractive target.

0viewsLast verified: Jan 18, 2026

Risk Summary

MEDIUM priority for SOC triage. Skype.exe is a legitimate communication app that can be abused for malware distribution and C2. Monitor for credential theft and Skype running from unexpected locations.

Overview

What is Skype.exe?

Skype is a Microsoft communication platform.

Core Functions

Communication:

  • Voice/video calls
  • Instant messaging
  • File sharing
  • Screen sharing

Security Significance

  • Trusted Channel: Bypasses some controls
  • File Sharing: Malware distribution
  • Credential Value: Account theft

Normal Behavior

Normal Behavior

Expected Process State

PropertyExpected Value
PathC:\Program Files*\Skype...
Parentexplorer.exe
UserLogged-in user
NetworkMicrosoft/Skype servers

Common Locations

C:\Program Files\Microsoft\Skype for Desktop\Skype.exeC:\Program Files (x86)\Skype\Phone\Skype.exe

Suspicious Indicators

Legitimate vs Suspicious

LEGITIMATE

Path:        C:\Program Files*\...
Network:     Microsoft servers
Behavior:    Normal communication

SUSPICIOUS

Path:        C:\Temp\Skype.exe
Behavior:    Credential file access by other process
             Unusual file transfers

Abuse Techniques

Attack Techniques

Technique #1: Credential Theft (T1555)

Stealing Skype login credentials.

Technique #2: Malware Distribution (T1566)

Sending malware via Skype messages/files.

Technique #3: Process Masquerading (T1036.005)

Malware named Skype.exe.

Detection Guidance

Detection Strategies

Priority #1: Path Verification

Process = "Skype.exe" AND
Path NOT CONTAINS "Program Files"
→ ALERT: HIGH

Priority #2: Credential Access

Process != "Skype.exe" AND
FileAccess CONTAINS "Skype\Cookies"
→ ALERT: HIGH

Remediation Steps

Protection and Remediation

Defense: Two-Factor Authentication

Enable 2FA on Microsoft account.

If Compromise Suspected

  1. Change password
  2. Review recent activity
  3. Check for unauthorized sessions

Investigation Checklist

Investigation Checklist

  • Verify Skype.exe path
  • Check for credential access
  • Review sent files
  • Check account activity

MITRE ATT&CK Techniques

- - -