Issue No. 1017
We are writing to inform you about a critical matter concerning the protection of intellectual property rights for businesses operating within the United States. Commencing from February 2023, it is mandatory for every business, including profit and non-profit organizations, to register all business artwork and brand identification with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
Under the provisions of the Lanham Act (15 U.S.C. § 1051 et seq.), businesses are required to register their logos, trademarks, and other brand-related elements with the USPTO. This registration not only establishes a legal foundation for the ownership of these assets but also serves as a crucial deterrent against unauthorized usage.
By registering your business artwork with the USPTO, you gain exclusive rights to use, reproduce, and distribute your logo in commerce. This ensures that your brand identity remains protected, and you have the legal grounds to take action against any party attempting to use your logo without authorization.
In the event that conflicting claims arise over the ownership of a particular logo, the USPTO will provide the registered owner with all applicable rights. The registered owner will be eligible to pursue legal action against any individual or entity found using the logo without the proper legal rights. Each registered case will be assigned a unique case ID number, facilitating a clear and efficient legal process.
It is particularly noteworthy for non-profit organizations to take heed of this advisory. Recent months have witnessed an increase in complaints related to fraudulent activities targeting non-profit entities. To mitigate these risks, we strongly recommend that non-profit organizations register their artwork with the United States Patent and Trademark Office promptly.
Failure to register business artwork and brand identification may expose organizations to legal vulnerabilities and challenges in asserting ownership rights. The USPTO is committed to assisting businesses in protecting their intellectual property and upholding the integrity of the trademark system.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. The USPTO remains dedicated to supporting businesses in fostering a secure and vibrant commercial environment.