What information can the USPTO provide about applications in secrecy order?

What information can the USPTO provide about applications in secrecy order?

The USPTO has strict limitations on providing information about applications under secrecy order:

• No information about the application can be given without authorization from the appropriate department or agency.
• The USPTO cannot confirm or deny the existence of such applications.
• Any inquiries about these applications are referred to the appropriate department or agency.

MPEP 203.08 states: ‘For applications bearing a secrecy order pursuant to 35 U.S.C. 181, no information will be provided concerning the application without authorization from the appropriate department or agency.’

To learn more:

• secrecy order
• confidential applications
• USPTO information disclosure