MUNICH - In line with the Strategic Plan 2028, the European Patent Office (EPO) continues to enhance MyEPO services, aiming to provide a user-friendly, simplified and fully digital patent granting process driven by cutting-edge technologies and the highest security standards. Among the measures taken so far is the successful implementation of two-factor authentication (2FA) last year, following which the EPO stopped issuing new smart cards as of December 31, 2023, according to the official website of EPO. 

Unlike smart cards, which require physical possession and a compatible reader, 2FA allows users to authenticate from anywhere using mobile devices. This flexibility makes 2FA particularly beneficial for on-the-go access and remote work, ensuring secure, easy and convenient use of MyEPO services from any location. The login process itself involves an additional layer of security, allowing MyEPO users to choose between phone, email, Google Authenticator or Okta Verify. With 56% of EPO’s users already adopting this method, 2FA is becoming increasingly popular.    

An exception to the non-issuance of new smart cards was made for users filing with national offices that do not yet offer an alternative to the EPO smart card. A grace period allows these users to request smart card renewals or replacements until the end of September. The EPO therefore reminds users that this grace period is now ending.

The issuance of new EPO smart cards, including renewals and replacements, will permanently cease on Monday, September 30, 2024, at 18.00 hrs. CEST. 

Unexpired smart cards will continue to provide access to EPO online services until December 31, 2024, at 23.59 hrs. CET. As of January 1, 2025, access via smart cards will no longer be supported, with all users signing into EPO’s online services using 2FA. 

Next steps

• Switch to two-factor authentication (2FA) now! EPO website offers comprehensive information on how to do so. 
• The Webform Filing tool will be decommissioned on December 31, 2024. The Online Filing 2.0 tool provides all its features and more.