What are the special procedures for handling secrecy order applications?

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.

Secrecy order applications require special handling procedures to maintain their confidentiality. According to MPEP 130:

Applications and papers in the application file, as well as any related papers, must be safeguarded from disclosure to unauthorized persons and must be securely kept in a locked area when not actually in use.

Additionally:

• Secrecy order cases should not be processed on any automated information system (AIS) unless the AIS is certified for classified processing.
• All processing should be done in a secure environment by personnel with appropriate clearances.
• Special care must be taken to prevent inadvertent disclosure of classified information.

For more information on classified information, visit: classified information.

For more information on patent applications, visit: patent applications.