Trademark Smart Filing, a company that claims to provide trademark registration services, is sending fraudulent emails and making scam calls to dupe small business owners into paying for non-existent services.
The sophisticated scam aims to exploit new entrepreneurs who may be unfamiliar with the proper trademark registration process through their fake website @trademarksmartfiling.com. But there are several red flags that can help you recognize and avoid this predatory scheme.
How the Trademark Smart Filing Scam Works
The scam begins with an email or phone call falsely claiming that a trademark application has been filed for your business name or brand. The message urges you to immediately pay a fee of around $299 to “protect” your trademark rights.
If you call their provided number +1 (929) 395-0040, you’ll speak to someone impersonating a US trademark attorney. This person aggressively insists that you pay right away or risk losing your brand name forever.
After receiving payment, Trademark Smart Filing sends fake USPTO documents to make it seem like your trademark application was filed. But in reality, no filing ever occurs.
Don’t Fall For Threatening Emails or Messages
The emails and calls from Trademark Smart Filing use high-pressure, threatening language about “losing your trademark rights.” They may even spoof official-looking documents and government phone numbers.
But it’s all a scam tactic to get you to pay up without thinking. Any real trademark concerns can be addressed by consulting an actual intellectual property attorney.
Red Flags of the Trademark Smart Filing
While the emails and phone calls seem convincing, a closer look reveals many red flags:
- The company uses a fake business address and false attorney names. Their listed location in New York does not actually house Trademark Smart Filing.
- The website Trademarksmartfiling.com was created on January 3, 2024, and it seems to be created with the intention of deceiving users.
- There is no proof that Trademark Smart Filing is a real law firm. They cannot provide a business license, bar association records, or other documentation.
- Reviews on their website appear fabricated. There are no reviews anywhere else online.
- Their trademark registration process is vague and unclear. A legitimate firm would explain exactly what services are provided.
- There are victim reports of paying the fees but not receiving any trademark registration services.
- The USPTO has no records of the impersonating trademark company being involved in any successful trademark applications.
- There are some other warning signs like no BBB accreditation, recently registered domain, and affiliation with other exposed scam sites like Trademark Dynamite.
What To Do if You Get a Phone Call or Email
If you receive a suspicious call [+1 (929) 395-0040] or email ([email protected]) demanding immediate payment for trademark registration, do NOT provide any personal information or pay anything.
Instead, hang up the phone and report the fraud attempt to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Forward any scam emails to the USPTO at [email protected].
Protect Your Business from Trademark Scams
Unfortunately, predatory frauds targeting entrepreneurs are on the rise. Here are some tips to avoid being victimized:
- Work only with reputable trademark attorneys who are verified members of a state bar association. Ask for their license information.
- Look up companies on the Better Business Bureau to check for complaints.
- Be wary of any unsolicited contacts demanding urgent action. Real government agencies like USPTO do not operate this way.
- Never provide payment or personal information to an unverified source.
- Consult the USPTO website for accurate trademark application information and fees.
- Report any suspected trademark rackets you encounter to help prevent others from falling prey.
By recognizing the steps of this scam and acting with caution, you can protect your business from being exploited by Trademark Smart Filing’s deceptive fraud tactics. Do your research before providing payment or personal details to any company that contacts you unexpectedly.
