Phantom or fake invoices

If you’ve recently received a letter asking you to extend your trademark registration and it didn’t come from NLO Shieldmark, beware! It could be from a malicious sender.

Criminals have long been aware that the administration of trademarks presents opportunities for fraud. After all, the trademark register is open to public scrutiny. So anyone can see which trademarks you own and when they’re due for extension.

Fake invoices

Unfortunately, there have been countless examples of phantom or fake invoices down the years. The scammer may offer to extend the validity of your trademark in a non-existent register or try to get you to make over money or divulge information.

Unsolicited and costly extensions

We’ve now come across a new development. Malicious companies are sending trademark owners letters offering to extend their registrations. Whether or not they do what they promise, they will charge you an exorbitant fee.

What you can do

Always manage your trademark with care. If you receive a letter, check the sender’s details meticulously. As a client of NLO Shieldmark, you should only be receiving invoices or renewal reminders from us and not from anyone else. If you’re in any doubt, you can always forward the letter to us to have it verified. Simply contact your designated representative at NLO Shieldmark.