The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has issued a warning to business owners: scammers are impersonating the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) in an effort to defraud applicants. These scams specifically target businesses that have filed trademark applications, often using fear and urgency to trick owners into sending money or sharing sensitive information.

How the Scam Works

Scammers use caller ID “spoofing” to make phone calls appear as though they are coming directly from the USPTO—sometimes even showing legitimate USPTO phone numbers in Alexandria, VA or Denver, CO.

Fraudulent callers may claim that:

• Another company is attempting to register your trademark.
  
  
• Immediate payment is required to secure your rights.
  
  
• Additional fees are needed to keep your application moving forward.
  
  

Scammers also send official-looking documents or pose as USPTO attorneys or examiners to appear credible.

Warning Signs for Business Owners

• Unexpected calls requesting trademark-related payments.
  
  
• Invoices or correspondence demanding fees not outlined in your USPTO filings.
  
  
• Instructions to wire money, pay through unfamiliar portals, or bypass USPTO.gov.
  
  

How to Protect Your Business

• Verify before acting: If you receive a suspicious call or email, do not respond. Contact your Minx Law attorney or the USPTO’s Trademark Assistance Center directly.
  
  
• Check your filing status: Always confirm application progress through the official USPTO Trademark Status and Document Retrieval (TSDR) system.
  
  
• Pay only through USPTO.gov: All legitimate USPTO fees are processed through the official website.
  
  
• Report suspicious activity: File a complaint at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and notify your counsel if a scam attempt references your application.
  
  

Why This Matters

Trademark scams can cost your business time, money, and even jeopardize your intellectual property rights. Protecting your filings requires vigilance—only trust communications that come directly from USPTO.gov or your attorney of record.

At Minx Law, safeguarding your brand is our top priority. If you receive any communication you’re unsure about, contact us before taking action.

Email Minx Law if you suspect fraudulent activity or have concerns about your trademark filings.

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