New USPTO Security Checks Start May 15
To crack down on fraudulent trademark activity, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is rolling out new security measures for select TEAS (Trademark Electronic Application System) forms. Beginning May 15, these updates will impact forms used to abandon an application, cancel a registration, or withdraw an attorney of record.
What’s Changing—and Why It Matters
Fraudulent filings have become a growing concern for the USPTO. In response, the agency is adding a new layer of verification to protect trademark owners and ensure that only authorized users can submit sensitive requests.
Here’s how the process will work:
The TEAS system will automatically check your USPTO.gov account to determine whether you’re authorized to submit these forms. If everything checks out, you can file as usual.
If the system needs extra verification, it will prompt you to request permission from someone listed on the application or registration—usually the owner or attorney of record. That person will receive an email and have 48 hours to approve or deny the request.
This new measure is part of a broader push to tighten security across the trademark system while minimizing disruptions for legitimate users.
What You Need to Do Now
To avoid delays, it’s essential to make sure your contact details are accurate and up to date—both in your USPTO.gov account and on file for your trademark.
- If you’re not working with an attorney: Double-check that the owner email and any courtesy email addresses in your application or registration are current.
- All users: Log in to your USPTO.gov account and confirm that your primary email address is correct and accessible.
Need help? You can reach the USPTO’s technical team at TEAS@uspto.gov.
Why This Matters for Trademark Owners and Professionals
These changes may seem small, but they could impact how quickly and smoothly you’re able to make updates to your trademark. Whether you’re an individual filer, a small business owner, or a branding professional managing portfolios, it’s smart to check your account access and communication details now—before the changes take effect.
Need help navigating the trademark process?
At TradeMark Express, we stay on top of every USPTO update so you don’t have to. If you’re filing a trademark or managing changes to an existing one, we’ll guide you through every step.
Let’s keep your trademark secure—contact us today for expert help.