CIPO Improvements For Better Access To On-Line Services
The Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO) has recently implemented some big changes in how both the public and registered agents can access services on-line.
Previously, in order to access on-line services, users required Innovation, Science and Economic Development (ISED) accounts, that were comprised of a user-name and a password.
The ISED login style was fantastic for intellectual property firms seeking to use only a few major accounts between many intellectual property practitioners.
However, as the Canadian Government moves more toward digital control and access, CIPO has implemented new identification and login methods that users need to be aware of.
The first big change is that users will no longer be using their ISED login account information.
Instead, as Government servers migrate to a common login platform, users will now be required to log in using one of two methods.
Users will either log in using a trusted partner login (in the form of Canadian bank logins) or using a Government of Canada “key” – referred to as a GC Key.
A screenshot below shows the new login entry portal.
From here, users have the option of logging in using their banking credentials or their customized GC Key (if they’ve signed up for one).
The user’s login choice is not permanent, meaning users can continually choose between one login method and the other.
The typical list of available banking institutions is shown below.
If the user selects the GC Key option, they’ll be taken to a page requesting their GC credentials, like that shown below.
In signing up for a GC Key, users will be required not only to create a user name, but also a series of security backup questions as well as associating an e-mail address to their GC Key.
If an ISED account already exists that is attached to the user’s e-mail address, the user’s ISED information will be automatically ported into this new login system.
Regardless of how a user chooses to log in, ultimately they will be required to confirm their login by way of 2-step authentication.
The first choice offered for 2-step authentication is the generation of a random code the user will receive via e-mail (at an e-mail address pre-registered with their account).
The second choice offered for 2-step authentication requires the user register a mobile phone number and have a strong authentication phone app on their phone.
Two suitable phone authentication apps for confirming login credentials are Duo Mobile and Google Authentication.
There are many other authentication apps available, regardless of whether users are using Android or Apple phones.
Any authentication phone app may be used for CIPO login, as long as the authentication app used accepts QR code registration (almost all phone authentication apps).
When a user attempts to log into their account, they will either enter their one-time e-mail code, or otherwise confirm login using their phone app.
This new form of on-line login is meant to offer greater security against account hacking, and is in line with changes to other Government of Canada web-based services.
For example, you can find the same login interface at the Corporations Canada web site.
More information regarding these new changes can be found at:
Visit our Services page to learn more about Pnc IP Group’s Patent services. If you have questions regarding the above, feel free to contact us.
Any patents, trademarks, or technologies referenced in this article are owned by their respective owners.
Questions regarding this article can be directed to Tapas Pain.
Pnc IP Group are licensed lawyers and registered patent and trademark agents with a history of serving the greater York Region, greater Toronto area since 2003.
Pnc IP Group is located in Vaughan, Ontario, and offers in-person visits by appointment.
Call us and book your appointment today, or speak with us by telephone anytime.
Your calls are always welcome, and never hesitate to ask us your questions.
These articles and opinions do not express or constitute legal advice.
