Warning: unsolicited mail - do not be misled

We would like to warn customers about a business practice that is on the increase. This practice has caused concern to many of our customers.

A number of companies are sending unsolicited mail to applicants for, and owners of, intellectual property rights eg trade marks, patents and designs. These invite the recipient to sign and return a document and pay a fee for a particular service.

Many of our customers have told us that they thought the mails came from an official source and thought they had to use, and pay for, the services offered. Examples of the types of services being offered are described below. You should be aware that these companies are not linked to any Government or Community Institution and there is no obligation to pay the fee.

If you receive such a letter or invoice, check carefully to see exactly what service you are being offered, whether you want it and if it comes from an official source. If you are in any doubt, please check with your Trade Mark or Patent Attorney, with your legal representative, or other IP adviser, alternatively call us on 0300 300 2000.

Unsolicited renewal reminders

The only office that issues an official reminder for renewal of a UK IP right is the Intellectual Property Office (IPO).

Entries in unofficial publications or registers

Owners of UK patents, designs and trade marks are being invited to apply for entry in various publications and "registers" in return for a fee. There is no obligation to pay them.

Unsolicited Community Trade Mark filing assistance

We are also aware that other businesses are writing to applicants of UK trade marks offering (for a fee) to file a Community Trade Mark application based on the data present in the UK trade mark application. There is no obligation to file a Community Trade Mark.

Other sources of information you may find useful

Trading standards are based within local authorities and businesses can alert them to any problems they have with unsolicited mail. You can find where your local trading standards office is situated by visiting the trading standards website .