But they gave me their word!

I agree, it's outrageous. I say you are entitled to a full refund!

where?

It still says so here: http://www.skype.com/intl/en/security/safety/safe-payments/

"Skype-to-Skype calls will always be free but there are a few things that cost a little such as calling mobiles and ordinary phones when you want to get hold of your friends that havent started using Skype yet."

Ok. That's much better. When people maike claims, it is always good to put evidence. The discussion would have been different if that was put there.

But I believe charging is the only was that network operators will allow Skype to work at all. It would be good if they explained it that way.

I agree the sensationalist headline. The moderators should delete this submission. Inflammatory headlines do nothing to encourage discussion.