Microsoft, Others, File "Stealth" Patents

bobwyman writes "Microsoft and others seem to be filing large numbers of "stealth patent applications" that hide the identify of the "assignee", or owner, of a patent application even though the legal principle of 'Duty of Candor' may legally require them to disclose their interest in the patent. Concealment of patent assignees permits a number of opportunities for fraud in the patent process while also making it more difficult to study patterns of application activity and 'inventiveness.' If not already illegal to conceal assignments, there should be laws written to make it illegal in the future."

Comments

Re:Not fraud

[Anonymous Coward]

The bottom line is that there is no "fraud" if Microsoft chooses not to identify its ownership of a patent

The bottom line is that there is fraud, but you as a patent lawyer have no chance of ever recognizing it as such.