Can citations be submitted anonymously to the USPTO?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-29 10 Rules 5 Related FAQs This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice. Yes, citations can be submitted anonymously to the USPTO if the person making the submission wishes to keep their identity confidential. According to 37 CFR 1.501(d) , as referenced in MPEP 2202: “ If the person making the submission wishes his or her identity to be excluded from the patent file and kept confidential, the submission papers must be submitted anonymously without any identification of the person making the submission. “ This provision allows individuals to submit prior art or written statements without revealing their identity, which can be useful in certain situations where the submitter wants to maintain confidentiality. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Patent Owner Can Submit Prior Art MPEP 2202 Permitted Submission Papers Must Be Anonymous MPEP 2202 Citing Party’s Identity Must Be Kept Confidential MPEP 2202 Required Separate Submission of Prior Art Without Request for Reexamination MPEP 2202 Permitted Anonymous Submission Requirement MPEP 2202 Required Patent Owner Can Submit Written Statements on Claim Scope MPEP 2202 Permitted Explanation of Prior Art Required for Patent File MPEP 2202 Required Submission of Prior Art and Patent Owner Statements Required MPEP 2202 Permitted Explanation Required for Prior Art Submissions MPEP 2202 Required Prior Art Citation Requirement for Patent Files MPEP 2202 Recommended Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse How are citations processed during an ex parte reexamination proceeding? Is there a fee for submitting prior art citations or written statements to the USPTO? What are the limitations on written statements submitted with prior art citations? Can a patent owner file citations of prior art a...