This is not spyware because if it was, the camera would open along with its video window. This is just a simple check to see if you have video capabilities. Skype does not have recording functionality of its own. The recording process is done with a 3rd party tool.
You can configure the options regarding Messenger Plus! from its configuration screen where all the automatic checks and recordings are available. Once you disabled those options, the camera will be deactivated until you actually place a video call.
