Washington, Sep 21 (EFE; additional reporting by The Costa Rica Star).– Video-calling and online messaging service Skype said Monday it was trying to fix a problem that was preventing users around the world from logging in or using some of its applications.

“We are working to fix an issue which is preventing some users from logging in & using Skype. We apologize for any inconvenience,” Skype, which is owned by Microsoft, said in a Twitter post.

Even if a user manages to log in, it is possible that they will appear to be offline to other users, preventing them from making calls, Skype said.

The first problems in using Skype started at 0820 GMT and users began reporting problems on social networks. EFE

Using Skype in Costa Rica

As previously reported by The Costa Rica Star, Skype is one of the most popular communication apps for expats in our country. In late 2013, Shannon Enete wrote about her experience using Skype in Costa Rica:

I take Skype with me everywhere I can get cell service on my iPhone. That way I can make a call to loved ones or for business back to the States. If anyone needs to reach me, and I have Skype logged in on my phone, it will ring!

There are competing apps that offer similar phone service, Vonage, magicJack, and TextPlus. Skype has been at it the longest, has a proven track record and adds video conferencing and instant message features.

Skype is also used extensively by Spanish and English language teachers and students in Costa Rica. Ms. Enete wrote at length about this topic last year:

Living in Costa Rica has really helped groom my Spanish skills, but not to the level that I would like. I’d like to have a private tutor, but the expense has been a barrier, until I stumbled upon Learned by Me. I’m not keen on the name, mind you, but their service is awesome! Based in Quito, Ecuador they employ native Spanish speakers with a variety of backgrounds to teach 45 minute lessons custom designed to achieve your goals! Because they are in Ecuador, a very affordable country, and utilize Skype, your cost is just $15 a lesson!

I read about each of the available tutors for the day and chose Daniela because she looked friendly and had an excellent teaching experience! Daniela was cheerful, kind, and spoke clear and slow Spanish. She knew that I was an intermediate Spanish speaker because I provided that information along with my goals when I set up the appointment. I enjoyed the 45 minutes and never felt intimidated.