>>37459
>Am I in the clear, Skype aside?
Sadly, I don't think anyone could ever be completely in the clear at this present time. While the software we use might be FOSS, the hardware is (mostly) all proprietary. Even then, if someone with the right tools gets access to your machine, physically or digitally, and whether you use free or non-free software, your machine is compromised.
Obviously you can reduce the risk by securing your network connection, reducing MITM attacks and browser profiling, and not using proprietary software.
As for an alternative to skype, you could try Tox or setup an irc just for you and your friends. I'm not too sure how many other free options there are though. If you want to truly tinfoil it up, check the /g/wiki (might be linked on tech, I think) as it has a lot of good info on improving computer/browser security.
>>37507
>using anything but slackware
>>37439
Here's something you could try. Seems pretty useful too. >>37431