In the last few days and weeks, we have received a great number of inquiries about trademark monitoring or trademark registry services based on letters received in the mail. These letters look official or governmental. In fact, they are generally scams. The registries are of no value. And the monitoring services are better done by attorneys or other service providers.

Many of these scams use names that look or sound like the “United States Patent and Trademark Office” but upon closer examination they are private solicitations.

If you have any questions about whether such an offer is real or necessary, contact an attorney or the USPTO.  

If the letter does not say it is from the ”U.S. Patent and Trademark Office” or “U.S.P.T.O.” on it, it is not a part of the trademark application or registration process. To limit the exposure to these scams, our firm never provides email addresses or phone numbers of our clients when filing with the USPTO.

Our latest video (below) features 5 basic tips for brand owners to be cognizant of in order to strengthen their brands and enhance the legal protection of those brands. Following these five simple steps will help any small business create and maintain a strong brand.  

- Search for conflicts

- Register brand name(s) with the USPTO

- Register other marks (logos, slogans, etc) with USPTO

- Monitor for infringements

- Be proactive

Whether you own a successful small business and are launching a new one, do not leave one of your most valuable assets unprotected.  A strong and original trademark attracts customers initially, keeps them returning, and should be protected just like any other precious asset.