Multiple trademark owners have contacted Blank Rome to say that, starting this month, scam artists have contacted them by telephone pretending to be the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (“USPTO”). The scam artists claim to be from the USPTO’s Accounts Receivable division, even displaying their caller ID, and seek credit card payment for fees related to trademarks and trademark applications.

This request is a fraud and if any fees are due, rest assured—if Blank Rome is your representative for such trademark (or patent) work—we are handling the matter directly with the USPTO. The USPTO does not contact represented trademark (or patent) owners directly. If you receive any such phone call, hang up immediately (or do not answer) and refrain from any discussion or disclosure whatsoever.

Please visit the USPTO website for more information on scams and protecting yourself from scams: Caution: Scam alert | USPTO