The USPTO makes use of PKI (Public Key Infrastructure) technologies and methods to secure transactions and information. Without proper identification (Customer Numbers and Digital Certificates) you cannot use some features of our online systems, such as pending application statuses or financial transactions.
The USPTO is also sensitive to your concerns regarding the security of using your credit cards to purchase items over the Internet. Safeguarding your privacy and confidentiality is of the utmost importance to us. The USPTO uses HTTPS protocol and other forms of data encryption to protect sensitive data such as financial account information.
More information regarding a browser's encryption can usually be found in the security information section of the browser's "Help" feature (look for information about encryption). You can also contact your system administrator or your Internet Service Provider for information about the level of encryption on your browser.
To learn more about HTTPS, see: Transport Layer Security.
Difficulty accessing USPTO websites or eBiz Systems? See Terms of Use for important information or contact our Technical Support team.