Warning: Fake invoices

Fake invoices in connection with international patent applications

One of our clients has drawn our attention to the fact that fake invoices are once again in circulation - this time invoices are issued by IBFTPR (International Bureau for Federated Trademark & Patent Register). The invoices which were forwarded to applicants mentioned in PCT applications appear to be official invoices containing title of the invention, application number, etc. The invoice for EUR 1,633.50 received by our client was not issued by WIPO and has no effect whatsoever on the validity of the PCT application. 
For more information please see the official homepage of WIPO which contains a warning against the scammers or contact Patentgruppen. Generally, it is important to remember that all official correspondence including payment of fees is sent to the representative stated in the applications and forwarded to the client.