Trademark owners should be vigilant about scams that attempt to mimic official U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) communications. These scams often involve fraudulent companies that trick trademark holders into paying unnecessary fees for maintenance, publication, or services that provide no real value.

Common Trademark Scams

1. Maintenance Fee Scams
   Scammers may send fake invoices that appear to be from the USPTO, claiming that maintenance fees are due to keep your trademark active. They often ask for payment for services like “renewal assistance,” which you can easily handle yourself via the USPTO website.

2. Publication and Listing Scams
   Some scammers offer to publish your trademark in a magazine or online database for a fee, claiming it's necessary for protection. In reality, these publications have no legal value and are often vanity projects designed to collect money from unsuspecting trademark holders.

Red Flags to Watch For

• Impersonation of the USPTO: Scammers often use names or logos that closely resemble the official USPTO look.
• Urgency and Pressure: Legitimate USPTO notices will not use high-pressure language or demand immediate payment.
• Unnecessary Fees: Be cautious of high fees for services that seem excessive or unrequested.
• Vague Communication: Scam letters often lack specifics about your trademark.

What to Do If You Receive a Scam Notice

1. Do Not Respond or Pay: Official USPTO communications will not ask for payment via email or phone.
2. Verify the Source: Always double-check the USPTO website for any notices related to your trademark.
3. Report the Scam: Report suspicious notices to the USPTO and Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
4. Consult Viridian: If you're unsure about the legitimacy of a notice, reach out to us for guidance.

Protect Your Trademark

At Viridian, we specialize in trademark law and can help protect your intellectual property from scams and fraud. Contact us today for expert assistance.