Spot the Scam: How the EU Is Fighting Fake IP Invoices

The scammers pretending to be official IP offices are getting smarter — but so are the people fighting them. The EUIPO’s 10th Anti-Scam Network meeting brought together experts from across Europe and beyond to step up the fight against misleading invoices that target IP users.

Every year, criminals rake in over €26 million from fraudulent payment requests sent to unsuspecting trademark or patent holders. These scams often look official — complete with logos, QR codes, and “urgent” payment language — but they’re anything but legitimate. Representatives from IP offices, Europol, and organisations such as INPI Portugal and the USPTO met in Alicante to share strategies, compare national experiences, and strengthen cross-border cooperation against these increasingly sophisticated frauds.

A major highlight of the meeting was the launch of an anti-scam leaflet, available in 23 EU languages. This easy-to-use guide helps IP owners spot fake invoices, understand what to do when targeted, and know when to report suspicious activity. The leaflet will be circulated widely through the Anti-Scam Network — now with growing support from both IP offices and user associations like MARQUES, which is leading a pilot project to collect scam samples for analysis.

If you’ve recently filed a trademark or patent, be extra cautious before paying any invoice you receive. Always double-check the sender and consult official channels when in doubt. You can download the leaflet and learn more on the EUIPO’s webpage on misleading invoices.

Or simply let our team handle it for you! By entrusting us with your IP portfolio, you’ll never have to worry about fake invoices or missed deadlines — we track all payments, renewals, and due dates for you.

Text: „10th Anti-Scam Network Meeting: Strengthening the Fight against Misleading Invoices". EUIPO, https://www.euipo.europa.eu/en/news/10th-anti-scam-network-meeting-strengthening-the-fight-against-misleading-invoices. Viděno 26. říjen 2025.

Photo: by Nicola Barts: https://www.pexels.com/cs-cz/foto/muz-ruka-penize-drzeni-7926666/