What are the guidelines for citing internet sources in patent applications?

When citing internet sources in patent applications, examiners should follow these guidelines:

  • Include the URL of the cited webpage
  • Provide the date the site was accessed
  • Include the entire contents of the website in the application file

The MPEP states: “When an Internet source is cited by the examiner, the entire contents of the website should be made of record in the application file.” (MPEP 904.02(c))

This ensures that the exact content referenced is preserved, as web pages can change over time.

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Tags: access date, Citations, internet sources, patent applications, url