The case is old but returns to a 'when Skype is preparing its IPO.
An old conflict between Skype and Arcep, the telecoms regulator, rises to the surface. According to the Express, the Authority had entered in 2007 the public prosecutor to withdraw a substantial breach by the publisher of the popular VoIP software.
At the heart of the problem, the status of Skype. This qualifies as a publisher of software while Arcep believes that the group is indeed a telecommunications operator engaged in France, subject to specific rules.
These rules include the requirement for Skype to enable interception of calls following a court decision to route emergency calls to participate in the financing of universal service and to allow number portability.
Complaints burst?
However, Skype has never declared as such with the controller (thus enabling it to generate significant savings). A default maximum punishment of imprisonment for one year and fined 75,000 euros.
However, this request had met with the relocation of the French offices of Skype in Luxembourg. The publisher could thus escape possible prosecution.
But the matter is clear today when the publisher is preparing its IPO. Also according to the blog of the Express, the American stock market regulator, the SEC says that the problem of status may affect the share value could be downgraded.
That prospect is unpalatable to leaders of the publisher.
Because Skype has chosen this as editor in many countries. The fines could then multiply if the courts of these countries believe that Skype is acting illegally as telecoms operator.
Arcep, contacted by the Nouvel Observateur, does not seem to add fuel to the fire by stating that there is nothing new in this "old" case. As for Skype, it seems to play the role of one who is unaware. Thus, stay tuned.
www.zdnet.fr
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