Just weeks after buying Skype, Microsoft may be awarded a patent for technology that lets it eavesdrop on VoIP calls.

The major computer tech conglomerate applied for the patent, titled "Legal Intercept", that allows the surreptitious recording of calls made over a VoIP network. Rationalising the patent may be a way for Microsoft to answer governmental requests for surveillance and wiretapping. The patent application claims that the need for such software appeared as traditional techniques for silently recording telephone communication may not work correctly with VoIP and other network-based communication technology.

If awarded, Microsoft’s patent would help Skype overcome resistance from foreign governments insisting on a ‘backdoor’ solution. For example, last year the Indian government threatened to ban Skype, Google, and Blackberry for not complying with stringent surveillance laws. In 2008, Skype's reputation in China suffered after it admitted to monitoring calls on behalf of the Government. The Austrian police service has already claimed it can bug Skype calls, though Skype has never commented on the matter.

Back in 2009 when Microsoft applied for a patent, buying Skype was probably not on their agenda. However, the company may have had in mind similar voice messaging software such as Microsoft Voice and Unified Communications.

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