Using AI tools safely in patent work
CIPA has published guidance to help SMEs and inventors use AI tools in patent work while protecting confidentiality and safeguarding patent rights.
AI guidance for SMEs and creators
Small and medium-sized businesses are being urged to take care when using artificial intelligence (AI) tools for patent work, following recent guidance from the Chartered Institute of Patent Attorneys (CIPA).
The guidance explains how AI can support tasks such as background research and drafting, but also highlights serious risks to patent rights if tools are used without proper safeguards.
CIPA warns that entering details of a new invention into non-confidential AI tools can count as making the idea public, which in the UK and Europe may mean it can no longer be patented. It also flags problems such as:
- hidden inaccuracies in AI-generated text
- incomplete technical descriptions that fail patentability tests
- over‑reliance on AI where a human inventor must still be named
- the risk that confidential data is used to train future AI models
To help SMEs and inventors manage these risks, the guidance recommends six practical steps:
- never input invention descriptions into non-confidential AI tools before filing
- check internal AI policies
- work with a patent attorney to identify AI-related risks
- verify AI-generated content
- clearly identify all human contributors
- keep evidence of human contribution
It also advises businesses to use AI tools that guarantee data isolation, put in place clear internal AI policies, and keep up to date with evolving official guidance from CIPA and the UK Intellectual Property Office.
Read the full AI guidance for SMEs and creators.
First published 10 March 2026