USPTO Advises Attorneys to Regularly Verify Bar Credentials to Prevent Unauthorized Trademark Filings

The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has issued guidance encouraging trademark attorneys to regularly verify their bar credentials as listed in the trademark register. This routine check is a critical step to confirm that their professional information is accurate and not being exploited without authorization.

Attorney identities and credentials have occasionally been misused in trademark filings. Such misuse often occurs in cases involving foreign-domiciled applicants who are mandated to engage U.S.-licensed counsel. Unauthorized appointments of attorneys in these filings can harm reputations and complicate trademark prosecution.

To assist in detecting potential misuse, the USPTO recommends that attorneys search the trademark register using specific search strings. Attorneys can enter their names in the trademark search bar, including reversed versions of their names, to uncover any applications or registrations listing them without their knowledge or consent.

If an attorney discovers unauthorized use of their credentials, the USPTO advises against submitting a Change of Address or Representation form. Instead, they should promptly report the issue by emailing TMScams@uspto.gov. This direct reporting channel enables the USPTO to respond swiftly.

Upon receiving a report, the USPTO will conduct an administrative review to confirm misuse. Once verified, the agency will suspend the responsible USPTO.gov account to prevent further fraudulent activity. This process underscores the USPTO’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of trademark records and protecting attorneys’ professional reputations.

The USPTO emphasizes that attorneys’ vigilance in monitoring their credentials and awareness of common scams are essential to safeguarding their professional standing. Regular checks help attorneys continue serving their clients confidently and without disruption.

For attorneys experiencing difficulty accessing links in USPTO communications, the agency suggests consulting IT or email administrators to "allow-list" specific domains such as links-1.govdelivery.com and links-2.govdelivery.com. This ensures uninterrupted access to important updates.

Attorneys and other stakeholders are encouraged to stay connected with the USPTO by subscribing to regular email updates through the subscription center at www.uspto.gov/subscribe. This service allows users to manage their email preferences and receive timely information.

The USPTO notes that emails from subscriptioncenter@subscriptions.uspto.gov originate from unmonitored mailboxes. For direct contact, users should visit the USPTO’s official website at www.uspto.gov/about/contacts.

By following these recommendations, trademark attorneys can actively protect their credentials from misuse, uphold their professional integrity, and contribute to the overall security of the trademark registration system.