Changes to how the USPTO selects registrations for audit

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Trademark Alert

Changes to how the USPTO selects registrations for audit

The USPTO is changing how it selects registrations for audit during the post-registration maintenance process.

Currently, we conduct random audits of section 8 and section 71 affidavits and declarations. Going forward, we will conduct directed audits of these filings when the registration file or the post-registration maintenance documents exhibit characteristics that call into question whether a mark is being used in commerce in the ordinary course of trade. This includes registration files with a specimen that appears digitally altered or made up of printouts from a specimen farm website.

These changes are intended to better position the audit program to address obvious issues with registration, thus protecting the integrity of the trademark registration system and improving the overall accuracy of the trademark register.

“An accurate trademark register serves an important purpose, as the public relies on it to determine whether a chosen mark is available for use or registration,” said Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director of the USPTO Kathi Vidal. “Conducting post registration audits is just one of the ways we are ensuring the integrity of the trademark register for the benefit of all.”

For more information, see the Federal Register Notice.

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