How to Spot Fake USPTO Websites, Emails, & Phone Calls

Scammers are getting smarter—and bolder. They often mimic USPTO websites, email addresses, and even phone numbers to trick you into handing over sensitive information or paying fake fees.

Here’s how to protect yourself:

Watch for fake USPTO websites.
Scammers create websites that look nearly identical to USPTO.gov or my.USPTO.gov to steal your data. Always double-check the domain name—if it’s not exactly USPTO.gov, it’s not legit.

Don’t trust caller ID.
Fraudsters may call pretending to be from the USPTO, demanding payment or personal information. The real USPTO will never cold call to ask for sensitive data or rush payments.

Know the signs of scam emails.
Scam emails may look official and even include your serial or registration number. But if the sender’s email doesn’t end in @uspto.gov, it’s a red flag. Always check your status and official records through the USPTO’s TSDR (Trademark Status & Document Retrieval) tool before taking action.

What to do:

If you receive a suspicious call, email, or website link, report it to TMScams@uspto.gov. For calls, you can also confirm legitimacy by contacting the Trademark Assistance Center at 1-800-786-9199.

Worried about trademark scams? TradeMark Express helps you navigate the trademark process with clarity and confidence—no surprise fees, no scams. Contact us today to get started.

The information provided on this site is for general informational purposes only. All information on the Site is provided in good faith; however, we make no representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, validity, or completeness of any information on the Site. The Site cannot and does not contain legal advice. The legal information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only, and is not a substitute for legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for legal advice.

Shannon Moore

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View Comments

dan klein says:

March 6, 2026 at 12:45 pm

is this a legitimate USPTO.gov email address:
subscriptioncenter@subscriptions.uspto.gov
- Staff Trademark Express says:
  
  March 9, 2026 at 10:14 am
  
  Hi Dan,
  
  Yes, that is a legitimate USPTO email. You can see it here (scroll down a bit): https://www.uspto.gov/subscription-center/2020/beware-email-scams
  
  Please let us know if we can answer any other questions. Thank you!
  
  Warm regards,
  Shannon