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

Question

Accepted Answer

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27 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. 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. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Internet Use Permitted for Application Search MPEP 904.02(c) Permitted Review of Cited Prior Art from Parent Application Required MPEP 904 Recommended Date of Search Must Be Indicated MPEP 904 Required Examiner Must Consider Prior Art from Parent Application MPEP 904 Required Policy for Internet Use by Patent Examining Corps MPEP 904.02(c) Internet Searches Must Protect Confidential IP MPEP 904.02(c) Internet Searches Must Protect Confidential IP MPEP 904.02(c) Internet Searches Must Limit to General Art and Protect Confidential IP MPEP 904.02(c) Required USPTO Personnel May Use Internet for Published Application Searches MPEP 904.02(c) Permitted Internet Search Queries Not Restricted for Published Applications MPEP 904.02(c) Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What are the benefits of using internet searching in patent examination? What are the best practices for citing Internet sources in patent office actions? What are the guidelines for documenting Internet searches in patent examination? What are the guidelines for Internet searching in patent examination? How should examiners handle non-patent literature from t...