Microsoft runs pilot on linking Skype and Aadhar

Technology giant Microsoft today said it has been working on a pilot to link Skype with the Aadhar database to explore if the identification service can be used on video calls, including those with government institutions.
The US-based software giant said it is very enthusiastic and has "embraced the universal ID system".
"We have been pursuing work, initially on a pilot basis, but it will continue to grow, to use that specific technology and integrate it into Skype," Microsoft President and Chief Legal Officer Brad Smith told reporters here.
Citing an example, Smith said he expects Skype to evolve in a way that will enable somebody at home to authenticate themselves using that ID system with a fingerprint or an iris scan.

"(The person can) then communicate with someone on the other end, who might for example, work for a government agency and the government agency will know that person is who he or she says they are," he added.
Smith said this will enable people to testify in court proceedings or get a licence they need.

"The kind of convenience this can bring to people's lives will be significant. They will not need to travel long distances for many requirements," he said.
Details of the pilot were, however, not disclosed.
Smith said the company is also working closely with the Indian government on setting up the Cyber Security Engagement Centre (CSEC).

"The centre will work with law enforcement agencies as well as customers and help stakeholders fight cyber crimes," he said.
Microsoft India Chairman Bhaskar Pramanik said the company is offering security consulting to companies in areas like power plants and defence.
Microsoft has recently set up a CSEC in Gurgaon, which brings together attorneys, investigators and security response experts from across the company to help protect, detect and respond to cyber threats in real-time. It works closely with government agencies like CERT-India.