A fraudulent website called Zoom Trademark (zoomtrademark.com) is offering entrepreneurs with deceitful emails and calls luring them into a trademark registration scam. But their promises of cheap, quick trademarks are all lies aimed at stealing your money. Here’s how to spot the signs of this crafty con.
How the Zoom Trademark Email Scam Fools Its Victims
The scam starts with an email claiming someone else is trying to trademark your business name first. It urges you to act fast by calling Zoom Trademark on +1 (213) 844-5131 to register the business name for a fee of just $299 & $449 in premium and corporate plans.
When you call the number, a fake “attorney” insists you pay immediately to file the trademark application and avoid legal issues. After taking your money, you get fake documents making it seem like your trademark is registered.
In reality, no real filing ever happens. Zoom Trademark pockets the money while your business remains unprotected.
Warning Signs Exposing the Exclusive Fraud
Despite professional looking messages, several red flags give away this scam:
- Aggressive threats of losing your name create false urgency and pressure.
- The recently created website has zero background or verifiable details.
- WHOIS data shows the website Zoomtrademark.com was anonymously created on January 25, 2024, and it seems to be created with the intention to dupe users.
- Cookie-cutter testimonials are clearly fabricated. There are no real online reviews.
- There is no valid proof that Zoom Trademark is a real law firm. They cannot provide a business license, bar association records, or other documentation.
- No company office was found at the stated location, 99 South Almaden Blvd Suite 600 San Jose California.
- Vague explanations of their application process and services.
- There are victim reports of paying the fees but not receiving any trademark registration services.
- No public records of them filing successful trademarks, only taking money.
- There are some other red flags like no BBB accreditation, recently registered domain, and affiliation with other exposed scam sites like Trademark Crown.
Don’t Be Rushed by Zoom Trademark – Verify First
High-pressure scare tactics are deliberately used to bypass your critical thinking. But no legitimate agencies demand immediate payment while threatening legal action.
Always research an unfamiliar company and consult an authenticated lawyer before paying fees or giving personal information. Never trust unanticipated calls coercing quick payments.
How to Guard Against Business Registration Email Scams
As sophisticated scams proliferate, business owners must be vigilant. Use these tips to avoid being swindled:
- Check for complaints on Better Business Bureau and reviews on Trustpilot before engaging.
- Verify licenses for attorneys and law firms through your state bar association.
- Get detailed explanations of services in writing before providing payment.
- Work only with attorneys recommended by verified contacts, not unknown cold callers.
- Report suspicious calls or emails to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to warn others.
Steps to Take if You Fall in their Trap
If you already fell prey to these scammers, take immediate action:
- Notify your bank and dispute any charges paid to Zoom Trademark as fraudulent.
- File reports with the FTC, IC3, USPTO, and other relevant agencies to document the fraud.
- Consult a legitimate intellectual property attorney to pursue trademark registration.
- Monitor accounts compromised by sharing data with fraudsters and enable two-factor authentication.
Overcoming embarrassment can be hard, but reporting scams helps prevent others from being victimized too. By knowing the cunning tricks of fraudsters like Zoom Trademark, you can keep your business safe.
