How should USPTO employees handle patent applications to ensure confidentiality?

Question

Accepted Answer

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09 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. MPEP 101 explains that USPTO employees must take specific measures to ensure the confidentiality of patent applications: No part of any application or related paper should be reproduced or copied except for official purposes. Application files must not be displayed or handled in a manner that would allow unauthorized persons to inspect them. For non-electronic files removed from their storage area, a charge must be promptly made in the tracking system. Physical files must be stored properly, not in unsecured locations like desk drawers. Interoffice mail related to applications must be sent in appropriate envelopes. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Patent Application Files Must Be Kept Confidential and Accessible MPEP 101 Recommended Interoffice Mail Must Be Sent in Appropriate Envelopes MPEP 101 Required Non-Electronic Files Must Not Be Left Unattended MPEP 101 Prohibited Confidentiality of Unpublished Patent Applications MPEP 101 Required Access to Published Patent Application Files Is Allowed Upon Request MPEP 101 Required Patent Applications Must Be Kept Confidential Until Published or Patented MPEP 101 Employee Must Maintain Confidentiality of Patent Application Documents MPEP 101 Confidentiality of Unpublished Patent Applications MPEP 101 Permitted Information on Abandoned Patent Applications Must Be Kept Confidential Without Authorization MPEP 101 Permitted Confidential Copies Prohibited for Patent Applications MPEP 101 Recommended Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse Can the publication or issue date of a pending patent application be disclosed over the phone? What information about an unpublished patent application can be given over the phon...