On February 1, 2023, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office issued a warning that scammers have recently started calling trademark owners, falsely claiming to be employees with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The scammers are using “spoofing” tactics that trick phone networks into displaying a name, number, and location that is different from the scammer’s actual name, number, and location.

If you receive a call from someone claiming to be from the USPTO “verifying” or requesting personal information, or asking for payment of fees, do not give them any personal identifying or payment information. The USPTO will not ask for your personal or payment information over the phone. If you are currently represented by McAfee & Taft, legitimate contact or correspondence concerning your trademarks will be directed to us as your representative. Likewise, any official government fees related to your trademark are ordinarily paid through the firm on your behalf.