Scam Alert: Unsolicited Trademark Emails Targeting Businesses
At Parkston Lawyers, we are committed to protecting our clients from deceptive practices. Recently, several of our clients have reported receiving fraudulent emails claiming to be from trademark service providers. These emails create a false sense of urgency, attempting to manipulate businesses into unnecessary trademark filings.
Protect Your Business from Trademark Scams
What is a Trademark Scam?
A trademark scam involves fraudulent emails falsely claiming that another party is attempting to register your trademark. These scams pressure business owners into unnecessary filings or payments under the guise of securing intellectual property rights.
How the Scam Works
Scammers send unsolicited emails claiming:
- The recipient has “first priority” to file the trademark due to prior use.
- Immediate action is needed to prevent another party from securing exclusive rights.
- Legal consequences such as cease-and-desist orders or lawsuits may follow if ignored.
- The email provides a fake or disconnected contact number to appear legitimate.
Why This is a Scam
- Fake urgency and legal threats create panic.
- Impersonation of trademark lawyers adds credibility.
- Fake or invalid phone numbers prevent verification.
How Scammers Operate
Scammers scrape data from sources like IP Australia, TTIPB, and law firm websites to impersonate real attorneys. They use this info to craft fraudulent emails that appear credible. Using AI and tracking tools (IP Australia, ASIC, WHOIS), scammers generate and send mass emails, often targeting recent trademark applicants with personalized details. The scammers then create urgency, claiming victims must act within 24 hours to avoid losing rights. They use fear tactics like cease-and-desist threats and lawsuits while posing as trusted legal professionals.
A Longstanding Trademark Scam Has Evolved
For many years, businesses have been targeted with unofficial invoices demanding payment for fake trademark services. We advise on these scams as part of our trademarking services to make our client’s aware of the risks and what to do if they receive such correspondence. These deceptive invoices mislead applicants into thinking they must pay a fee to maintain or register their trademark. More information on these fraudulent invoices can be found on IP Australia’s official site.
However, this scam has now escalated, with fraudsters shifting from fake invoices to attempts at manipulating businesses into unnecessary or incorrect trademark filings. Their tactics have become more aggressive, using urgency, threats, and impersonation to pressure business owners into costly mistakes.
How to Protect Yourself from Trademark Scams
- Register and Protect Your Trademark: A registered trademark gives you exclusive rights, preventing scammers from exploiting your brand.
- Verify the sender’s authenticity: Check email domains and avoid responding to suspicious messages.
- Consult a trusted lawyer: If unsure, seek professional advice and verify the lawyer’s details before sending any funds.
- Report scams: Notify IP Australia through their scam alert page.
Thinking About Trademark Registration? Let Us Help!
If trademark registration is something you’ve been considering, now is the time to take action—with the right guidance. At Parkston Lawyers, we are trusted experts in the field and have helped many clients secure, protect, and enforce their trademarks with confidence.
Don’t leave your brand vulnerable to scammers. We provide the right advice and ensure your trademark is registered properly and effectively.
📞 Call us at 03 9989 0912
📧 Email us at info@parkstonlaw.com.au
🌐 Visit us at www.parkstonlaw.com.au
Stay Safe – Protect Your Business from Trademark Scams
If you have received a suspicious email, contact Parkston Law today for expert legal guidance.
