Warning – Unauthorised changes to address for service details on trade marks

On 12 March 2025 published a warning on LinkedIn about a new scam targeting trade mark customers/owners. Unlike previous malicious strategies, such as the fake emails using genuine attorney names, this appears to involve the scammer (or scammers) making bulk requests to change the address for service details without the owners consent.

It seems that numerous trade mark records have been affected, with the fraudulent requests taking advantage of the automatic update facility to change the details. In response, IP Australia has immediately frozen the online capability to do this for address for service and the activity has been reported to the necessary authorities. IP Australia will be reinstating the original and correct agents/address for service on these affected records. It appears that some other processes that are usually automated (such as issuing notice of new trade mark filings to the agents on record) has also been frozen whilst the matter is investigated. As such, we might expect some short delays in receiving these notices if they are having to be issued manually.

At this time, exactly how many trade mark customers have been affected is unknown.

Crucially, changing the address for service does not affect any other trade mark aspects, such as the status or ownership. Anyone who has noticed a change to their address to service – or any other fraudulent activity – is urged to contact IP Australia on 1300 651 010. Trade mark customers can also follow updates on IP Australia’s LinkedIn page. Naturally, we are happy to review any notices if you are concerned or suspicious, or, simply unsure if your trade mark has been affected. You can always email me at jacqui@mmwtrademarks.com.au for further advice and review.

I will, of course, update this post as soon as more information becomes available.