u/its__cait

I'm going through the process of my trademark application. I got an email that looked legit- had the uspto.gov; said she was for managing IP (katherine Franco) from Texas (im from Indiana); had me make a payment for my attestification.

But then I called another attorney from another uspto email (Eric Smith) and he said they don't call people; call my bank and get my money back. Then the IP lady emailed me with a clearance certificate form to sign and send back.

Am I being scammed? Do I need the clearance form? I already did my own research and my company name is unique. Help please!