Two-factor authentication takes over as sole access method starting 1 January 2025
In line with the Strategic Plan 2028, the European Patent Office (EPO) continues to enhance MyEPO services, aiming to provide a more accessible, simplified and fully digital patent granting process driven by cutting-edge technologies and the highest security standards.
As part of these ongoing efforts, last year the EPO successfully implemented two-factor authentication (2FA) as a more secure and user-friendly method of accessing EPO online services. The distribution of new smart cards was discontinued on 1 January 2024 but the use of both access systems in parallel continued.
The last phase of the transition is coming up
As previously announced, access to EPO online services via smart cards will be discontinued on 31 December 2024 at 23.59 hrs CET. Starting from 1 January 2025, all users will need to have and use an EPO 2FA account to access any of these services.
Unlike smart cards, which require physical possession and a compatible reader, 2FA allows users to authenticate from anywhere. This flexibility makes 2FA particularly beneficial for on-the-go access and remote work, ensuring the 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.
The majority of users have already activated 2FA to access our services. If you have not yet switched to 2FA, please do so. All relevant information can be found on our website.
If you have questions regarding access to national office online services, please contact the corresponding national office.
Looking ahead
Two filing tools will be discontinued on 1 January 2025 and we recommend to switch to our web application Online Filing 2.0:
- In parallel to the discontinuation of smart cards access, the Online Filing software eOLF version 5.14 which allows login with smartcard will be retired on 1 January 2025. eOLF version 5.15 which allows login with 2FA will remain available.
- The Webform Filing tool will be discontinued on 1 January 2025.
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