Recently, an Alberta CPA reported receiving a fraudulent email claiming urgent action was needed to secure the trademark rights for their firm name. The email, with the subject line “Trademark Infringement Final Notice for Business Name,” falsely asserted that another party was attempting to register the name and that immediate action was necessary to prevent legal consequences.
This type of scam is designed to pressure recipients into making hasty decisions, often leading to financial loss or the disclosure of sensitive information. The email typically:
- claims another entity is filing a trademark for your business name.
- urges you to act within a very short deadline (e.g., 24 hours).
- uses legal jargon and threats of lawsuits to create fear.
- asks for payment to proceed with trademark registration.
Recognize and avoid scams
- Verify the source – If you receive an unsolicited trademark notice, cross-check the information with the Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO) directly.
- Look for red flags – Scammers often use high-pressure tactics, vague sender information, and generic email addresses. Any demand for immediate payment or personal details is a red flag.
- Consult a professional – If you’re uncertain about the legitimacy of a trademark issue, seek legal advice from a qualified intellectual property lawyer or chat with our registrations team at CPA Alberta.
- Don’t click any links or respond – Avoid engaging with suspicious emails. Clicking links or downloading attachments could expose you to malware or phishing attempts.
Protect your firm from scams
- Register your organization name and trademark early – Proactively securing your firm’s name with CIPO can help prevent fraudulent claims.
- Educate your team – Ensure staff members recognize common scams and follow cybersecurity best practices.
- Monitor official channels – Stay informed about trademark issues through CIPO and professional associations.
CPA Alberta is committed to helping members safeguard the interests of their organization. If you receive suspicious emails related to trademark registration or other legal threats related to your designation, firm name, etc please report them to registrations@cpaalberta.ca. By staying vigilant, you can protect your firm from falling victim to fraud.
