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I got a very strange letter asking for additional payments for my trademark application. Is it a scam?

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Written by Tomas Orsula

Senior Trademark Attorney

It is almost certainly a scam. Some fraudulent organizations present themselves as EUIPO or other IP offices, and try scamming trademark applicants. Such fraudsters regularly check trademark databases and target people with pending trademarks. Since trademark registries are publicly available, they use that information and send letters or emails, pretending to be an IP office or a legal representative.

If you feel like the letter you received might be a scam, do not transfer any money. Always make sure you know what you are paying and to whom. If you are working with a legal representative and believe the email or letter might be from them, first call them and ensure this is the case. Also, check the correct name and abbreviation of the IP office you are registering with.

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