How to get IP address from Skype?

Skype is a widely popular communications platform that provides voice, video and text messaging services. It allows users to make audio and video calls, send instant messages and share files with individuals or groups. Skype is widely recognized in the Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) field due to its widespread use and potential to collect information during investigations.

Notably, Skype has faced security vulnerabilities in the past that exposed users' IP addresses, allowing attackers to track their approximate geographic location. The vulnerability raised concerns about privacy breaches, potential misuse in relationships, and the risk of intrusive cyberattacks. While Microsoft initially downplayed the severity of the issue, they eventually acknowledged the problem and promised to address it with an upcoming patch.

However, this becomes a potential source of valuable data when conducting open source intelligence investigations. Using the IP address associated with a Skype account, investigators can gain insight into the geographic location and potential connections of the individual behind the account.

The following describes the methods involved in querying Skype IP addresses for open source intelligence purposes.

Methods to get IP address on Skype

1. Skype IP Resolver

Step 1: Search for the target person’s username in Skype’s “Chats” or “Contacts”.

Step 2: Open the Skype IP Resolver website.

Step 3: Paste the copied username into the "Skype Username" field.

Step 4: After completing the authentication process and entering the number in the blue box, click on the "Lookup" button.

Step 5: The person’s IP address will be displayed.

2. Wireshark

Step 1: Download and install Wireshark.

Step 2: After launching Wireshark, select the network interface used to connect to the Internet. This could be your Wi-Fi adapter or Ethernet interface.

Step 3: Click the Capture button in Wireshark to start capturing network traffic. This will start recording all packets sent and received through your network interface.

Step 4: To filter out Skype-related packets and focus only on Skype-generated traffic, you can type "skype" in the filter field and press Enter or click the Apply button.

Step 5: After applying the filter, initiate a Skype call or chat with the person whose IP address you want to retrieve.

Step 6: Wireshark continues to capture packets as you communicate with Skype. It will analyze the packets to identify the source or destination IP address associated with the Skype communication. You can look for packets that contain a "Skype" identifier or an IP address of interest.

Step 7: Once you have identified the IP address, you can write down the IP address that corresponds to the person you are communicating with on Skype.

Step 8: Once you have retrieved the desired IP address, you can stop the packet capture in Wireshark by clicking the Stop button.