While Skype obviously like Moneybookers for fraud and chargeback protection, stopping US credit cards points to a fraud problems that neither Skype or the US bankers were prepared to handle. Yet surely the problem if so large is much much bigger than Skype. Wouldn't you think that rapid global growth, would be just the type of business that the banks would be after even if the transaction values are relatively low. It's obviously impossible for Skype to point the finger at US bankers, it's not a smart way to create friends and influence people. Still whatever the solution they need a US credit card solution fast. I've used PayPal for recent purchases. I started the Moneybookers payment system and simple won't use it. They are asking for information that I don't have to give on any other commerce site I use. You can bet Skype is working on it. It's costing them dollars and like plane seats every minute lost in processing payments hits at revenue and profit.

Skype is not alone out there facing challenges. This note on the Skype Forum provides a alerts to “phishing” or “spoofing” scams warning everyone not to respond to any e-mail alerted to that asks for your Skype account details. The e-mail example mimics those I receive almost daily for PayPal and eBay amongst others. It's common sense, and yet they are catching unsuspecting people out.

I believe Skype remains too cautious in telling Skypers what the position or story is. Many of us have used credit card methods in the past to purchase and renew. There is no explanation on the account pages themselves. There should be that is where you are directed to add to your balance. It's an easy insert. There is no reason to force consumers to go looking. Similarly a link to PayPal to open an account or a list of what Moneybookers will require would help to inform users of "new choices" and how to sign up.

While fixing payments Skype should address "vouchers" and "members - since".