Beware of Impersonator Calls: Scammers have recently started calling trademark customers, falsely claiming to be an employee with the USPTO.

The scammers use a tactic called “spoofing,” in which they trick phone networks into displaying a name, number, and location different from their actual name, number, and location. They’re trying to trick you into believing you’re talking to the USPTO so they can steal money or personal information from you.

If you receive a call from someone you suspect is a scammer, do not give them any personal identifying or payment information. The USPTO will never ask for personal or payment information over the phone.

If you suspect that you have received a spoofed call, contact the Trademark Assistance Center at 1-800-786-9199 (select option #1) to verify the call was from a USPTO employee and for assistance. 

Make Your NMTI Nominations: The USPTO seeks nominations for the National Medal of Technology and Innovation (NMTI). America’s highest honor for technological achievement is bestowed by the president of the United States.

The medal is awarded to individuals, teams, and companies for their outstanding contributions to the nation’s economic, environmental, and social well-being. This is done through the development and commercialization of technological products, processes and concepts, technological innovation, and strengthening of the nation’s technological workforce.

Anyone can nominate a candidate for the NMTI by submitting the online nomination form and letters of support. Applicants must complete nominations before midnight ET on May 26. Visit uspto.gov/nmti to submit a nomination, learn about the March 16th webinar, and for more information.