Beware of fraudulent invoices

During the summer period, when staffing levels are often lower and normal workflows may be different, it is unfortunately also peak season for scammers seeking to exploit the situation.

After the publication of patent and design applications, we frequently see cases where our clients receive invoices from fraudsters posing as various official design and patent authorities. These invoices typically concern publication, registration, or renewal of applications.

Despite elaborate attempts to imitate official authorities in both visual and linguistic presentation, the services offered by these companies are not connected to the official processing of your application. You are therefore under no obligation to pay such invoices, and any payment made to these companies will have no legal effect whatsoever.

As a general rule, please note that there are no separate official fees for publication or registration – these services are included in the official filing fees and are therefore already covered when the application is submitted. Additionally, please be aware that any renewal fee invitations will be sent by Patentgruppen, provided you have appointed us to handle your renewals.

Patentgruppen strongly encourages all clients to be cautious when it comes to payments. If you receive a letter or invoice, you should carefully examine what is being offered and whether the sender is legitimate.

If you are ever in doubt about whether an invoice should be paid, please do not hesitate to contact us.