Piper Alderman issues alert on scam emails impersonating IP lawyers and registered trade mark attorneys

Business and intellectual property (IP) rights owners should be aware of a new email scam circulating, impersonating IP specialist lawyers from Piper Alderman. These emails contain false information and offer urgent trade mark assistance in an attempt to mislead recipients.

It has been bought to our attention that these scam emails have been sent by an operator impersonating Deputy Managing Partner and IP Partner, Tim O’Callaghan, as well as other registered trade mark attorneys to garner legitimacy. A redacted example of the scam email is provided below with this notice.

In today’s email-heavy landscape, it is essential to remain vigilant when receiving correspondence from unfamiliar or external email addresses. To identify fraudulent emails, be mindful of the following common indicators:

• Unwarranted urgency – Scammers often create a false sense of urgency, demanding immediate action (e.g., “You have 24 hours” or “Immediate response required”).
• Errors and inconsistencies – Typographical errors, poor grammar, spelling mistakes, and inconsistent formatting, such as varying font sizes.
• Scare tactics – Utilising threats of severe consequences, such as legal action, financial penalties, or cease-and-desist orders, to pressure recipients into responding.
• Inconsistent email addresses – Review past correspondence to verify the sender’s email address, ensuring it aligns with previous legitimate communications.
• Misuse of familiar names – Scam emails often reference a known attorney to exploit existing relationships to encourage compliance.

We encourage our clients, employees, and members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious or seemingly fraudulent emails impersonating Piper Alderman employees. Please direct any concerns to the contact listed below.

It is prudent to register your business names and logos as Registered Trade Marks if possible. For expert advice about trade marks and other IP matters, contact our IP specialists.

Click here to view the redacted example of the scam email.

Tim O’Callaghan (the lawyer whose identity was misused)
Deputy Managing Partner & IP Partner

E: [email protected]