Blog
USPTO Update on CrowdStrike IT Outage: A Commitment to Recovery
The USPTO is working diligently to recover from the recent CrowdStrike IT outage, restoring services and supporting affected employees.
In a recent incident affecting millions worldwide, the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has been working diligently to recover from a significant IT outage linked to CrowdStrike, a prominent cybersecurity firm. The USPTO’s response highlights its commitment to ensuring the seamless operation of its services, even in the face of unexpected disruptions.
CrowdStrike Incident
What Happened?
The IT outage began early Friday morning, affecting numerous employees within the USPTO and disrupting access to vital workstations. This incident has drawn attention not only for its immediate impact on USPTO’s workforce but also for its implications for users relying on the office’s services. Fortunately, the majority of external systems—such as MyUSPTO and TEAS—remained minimally impacted. By Friday afternoon, these systems were restored to full functionality, allowing stakeholders to continue using the USPTO’s online resources without disruption.
Recovery Efforts Underway
The USPTO has made it a priority to restore workstation access for its employees. As of the latest updates, many workers have regained their computer access, and the agency anticipates that most of its employees will be back online by the end of the week. However, the agency acknowledges that some employees may have missed important meetings or communications during this period, and it expresses regret for any confusion this may have caused.
In light of the circumstances, the USPTO has implemented several measures to facilitate recovery. This includes setting up an expanded onsite resolution center and extending service hours to accommodate employees still facing challenges. The agency’s leadership has expressed deep appreciation for the hard work and dedication of teams who have been tirelessly engaged in recovery efforts, even working through the weekend to resolve issues.
A Commitment to Stakeholders
The USPTO is not only focused on restoring its internal operations but also on minimizing the impact of this incident on its stakeholders. The agency is committed to providing support and assistance to those affected by the outage, ensuring that all services are operational and accessible.
In a statement addressing the situation, USPTO officials expressed gratitude for the public’s patience and understanding. They are taking proactive measures to ensure that similar issues do not arise in the future, reinforcing their commitment to cybersecurity and operational resilience.
Looking Ahead
As the USPTO navigates the aftermath of the CrowdStrike incident, its primary goal remains clear: to restore normalcy and maintain the trust of its users. The agency is dedicated to its mission of serving the public and fostering innovation, even amidst challenges.
We encourage all users to stay informed about the status of USPTO services and to reach out if they experience any ongoing issues. The USPTO appreciates the understanding and support of its employees and stakeholders during this recovery process. Together, we will emerge stronger from this incident, ensuring that the USPTO continues to fulfill its vital role in the U.S. innovation ecosystem.Read the
USPTO’s response to the CrowdStrike incident. https://www.uspto.gov/blog/update-uspto-response-crowdstrike-it-outage