Scammers are hijacking attorney identities and bar credentials to use in trademark filings. This scam is typically used to circumvent trademark rules requiring foreign-domiciled applicants to have a U.S.-licensed attorney. While this isn’t a new scam, we’re seeing it evolve. 

We strongly encourage attorneys to check the trademark register to ensure their bar credentials aren’t being used without their permission. While we have trademark rules prohibiting the false, fraudulent, or mistaken designation of an attorney and processes in place to help us identify wrongful appointments, you can help us find them faster. It’s easy to check. 

Check bar credentials 

In the trademark search bar enter AT: (("FIRST NAME LAST NAME"~2) OR ("LAST NAME, FIRST NAME"~2)) to see if your name is listed on any applications or registrations. By using this search string, you can catch instances where the scammer has reversed your name. Some scammers have used this tactic to try to evade detection.

If your credentials were hijacked

If your name appears where it shouldn’t, report it to TMScams@uspto.gov. Do not file a Change of Address or Representation form. Once you contact us, we’ll reach out to ask you some questions, and then we'll take steps as needed to correct the trademark public record. If necessary, we’ll suspend the USPTO.gov account that submitted the hijacked bar credentials to conduct an administrative review.

Practicing attorneys should be on the lookout for these and similar scams that might put their credentials and clients at risk. In the meantime, we’ll continue updating our webpage for recognizing common scams.