CITMA publishes report on AI's impact on IP practice
The importance of human oversight, new forms of sophisticated IP-crime, and the evolution of IP tools and processes – our new report sets out how AI could transform our profession.
Our new report into AI in the IP profession shows both opportunities and risks as artificial intelligence is set to change the trade mark profession.
Originally prepared for CITMA Council, this report sets out researched talking points that will help set the IP profession up for an AI-infused future.
Our report reveals that AI is already transforming traditional IP practice through automation of routine tasks, enhanced decision-making capabilities, but is at risk from new forms of IP crime.
Read the report
The role of humans
More importantly the role of humans in our profession is set to change – with opportunities to focus on strategic advice that AI cannot replicate, while benefitting from speeding up certain processes – with searches taking a fraction of the time for example.
There will continue to be a need for full-trained professionals and the report sets out the importance of human oversight - AI tools can provide valuable assistance, but their output should always be subject to human judgement and feedback.
Transformational impact
- Trade mark searching and watching: AI tools can scan millions of data points almost instantaneously, enabling more comprehensive results than traditional manual methods
- Portfolio management: AI-driven analysis identifies competitor activities and potential opportunities, though effectiveness depends on data quality
- Legal drafting and research: Generative AI assists in document preparation but carries risks of "hallucinations" where AI fabricates information
New threats
The report identifies sophisticated new forms of AI-driven IP crime, including "starjacking" - using AI to artificially inflate GitHub repository credibility - and AI-generated counterfeits that combine reverse engineering with 3D printing to produce replicas indistinguishable from originals.
Professional roles evolving
AI is set to redefine professional roles. However, the role of humans remains vital as AI will enhance what our members can do rather than replace it. The future for IP practitioners lies in providing strategic, holistic commercial advice that machines cannot replicate.
Regulatory landscape developing
The report examines varying global approaches to AI regulation, from the EU's risk-based AI Act to the UK's developing principle-based framework, and provides guidance on building trust through transparency and ethical AI use.
Task force becomes permanent committee
Given the significance of these developments, we have elevated our AI Task Force to become a permanent AI Committee. This reflects the organisation's long-term commitment to leading the profession through technological transformation.
CITMA President Kelly Saliger commented: "This report represents an important moment for our profession. AI is not merely an emerging trend but a fundamental force with the power to reshape how we practice. CITMA is committed to leading our profession through this transformation - we will not simply react to technological change, we will help to shape what the future looks like."