Beware of Fake Trademark Registration Platforms: How to Protect Your Brand the Right Way

In recent years, trademark registration in India has gone digital — making the process faster and more accessible. Unfortunately, this convenience has also opened the door to fake online platforms that mislead entrepreneurs with false promises like “instant trademark approval” or “guaranteed registration.”

 

Many business owners, startups, and MSMEs fall into this trap and lose not just money, but also valuable time and legal protection for their brand.

 

This guide will help you understand:

• How trademark scams operate
• How to find a genuine trademark attorney or agent
• The correct legal procedure for trademark registration
• The real timelines you should expect

Why Fake Trademark Platforms Are a Serious Risk

 

Fraudulent trademark service websites often look professional and claim to be government-linked or legally authorised. In reality, many of them:

• Are not registered trademark agents or advocates
• Have no legal authority to represent clients
• Use misleading advertising to attract customers
• Disappear once payment is made

 

The damage caused by such platforms includes:

• Incorrect or incomplete filing
• Missed deadlines
• Invalid trademark applications
• No legal support in case of objections or disputes

 

In short, your brand remains unprotected even after spending money.

How to Identify an Authentic Trademark Attorney or Agent

 

Only two categories of professionals are legally authorised to represent applicants before the Trademark Registry in India:

Registered Trademark Agents

Advocates enrolled with a State Bar Council

 

Checklist to verify authenticity

 

Before hiring anyone, make sure you:

• Ask for their registration or enrolment details
• Confirm their status on the official IP India portal or Bar Council records
• Ensure they provide a formal engagement letter
• Receive official receipts and filing acknowledgements
• Can track your application on the government website yourself

 

Red flags to avoid

 

• Stay away from anyone who:
• Promises guaranteed approval
• Claims registration in a few days
• Uses only WhatsApp or social media for communication
• Cannot share legal credentials
• Avoids written agreements

Click to Download the official government PDF on trademark registration and authorised agents

The Correct Procedure for Trademark Registration in India

 

Understanding the real process protects you from being misled.

 

Step 1: Trademark Search

 

A professional checks whether your brand name, logo, or slogan conflicts with existing trademarks.

 

Step 2: Filing the Application

 

The application is filed on the official trademark portal either by:

• The applicant directly, or
• An authorised advocate or registered trademark agent

 

Step 3: Acknowledgement

 

You receive a Trademark Application Number, which allows you to track your case online.

 

Step 4: Examination

 

The Trademark Office reviews your application for:

• Similarity with existing marks
• Legal compliance
• Distinctiveness

 

Step 5: Reply to Objections

 

If objections are raised, a legal response is submitted and a hearing may be required.

 

Step 6: Journal Publication

 

Once accepted, your trademark is published in the Trademark Journal for public review.

 

Step 7: Registration

 

If no opposition is filed, your trademark is registered and you receive the Registration Certificate.

Realistic Trademark Registration Timeline

 

Honest professionals never promise instant results. Here is what actually happens:

Stage	Approximate Time
Application filing	1–2 days
Examination report	1–3 months
Reply & hearing (if needed)	2–6 months
Journal publication	3–4 months
Final registration	12–18 months on average

Any website claiming registration in a few days is not being truthful.

How to Protect Yourself from Trademark Scams

 

Follow these simple rules:

• Work only with authorised professionals
• Track your trademark status personally
• Never rely only on ads or social media claims
• Always demand invoices and written commitments
• Report suspicious services to cybercrime authorities

Why Choosing the Right Trademark Expert Matters

 

Your trademark is not just a formality — it is the legal foundation of your brand identity. A wrong filing today can create years of legal trouble tomorrow.

 

Choosing a genuine trademark professional ensures:

• Correct filing
• Legal accountability
• Proper handling of objections
• Strong protection for your brand

Final Words: Protect Your Brand, Not a Scammer

 

In the digital age, trust must be earned — not advertised.

 

Before you pay any online platform for trademark registration, remember:

There are no shortcuts in law. Only the right process leads to real protection.

 

Invest in authenticity.

Choose authorised professionals.

And safeguard what truly matters — your brand.