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Multifactor Authentication Setup Instructions for PACER

Implementation of Multifactor Authentication (MFA) for Case Management/Electronic Case Files (CM/ECF) | Southern District of California | United States Bankruptcy Court

Implementation of Multifactor Authentication (MFA) for Case Management/Electronic Case Files (CM/ECF)

Tuesday, May 13, 2025

The Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts will begin implementing multifactor authentication (MFA) for all filers using Case Management/Electronic Case Files (CM/ECF). Voluntary enrollment began May 11, 2025.  CM/ECF users should enroll in MFA at their earliest convenience to preserve uninterrupted access and avoid missing filing deadlines. Those who do not voluntarily enroll in MFA will be randomly selected for mandatory enrollment starting in August 2025. By December 31, 2025, all CM/ECF users MUST be enrolled in MFA to maintain system access. If using third-party software for filing, CM/ECF users should ensure MFA is supported by that software before enrolling to avoid any disruption in business processes.

MFA enrollment will be optional for PACER-only users, but it is strongly recommended that they take advantage of this security feature.  MFA provides an added layer of security to accounts by helping protect against cyberattacks that steal passwords, significantly reducing the risk of unauthorized access.

Please see the PACER website for further information. For questions regarding the MFA enrollment, contact the PACER Service Center at pacer@psc.uscourts.gov(link sends e-mail) or (800) 676-6856. The PACER Service Center hours of operation are Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. CT.

 

Multifactor Authentication Setup Instructions: You may choose to set up Multifactor Authentication (MFA) using either Authentication Apps or Backup Codes.

Option 1:  Multifactor Authentication – Authentication Apps

  1. Download a compatible authentication app (e.g., Google Authenticator, Duo Mobile, Authy, FreeOTp) to your mobile device. 
  2. Log in to PACER and go to Manage My Account. Select Not Enrolled or Manage MFA Settings. 
  3. Open the app and enter the one-time passcode it displays when prompted.

You can download more detailed instructions, including screen captures for each step, by clicking here.

Option 2:  Multifactor Authentication – Backup Codes

  1. Log in to PACER and go to Manage My Account, select Not Enrolled or Manage MFA Settings
  2. On the Multi Authentication Methods Screen, locate the Backup Codes section and select Get New Codes.  
  3. A security code will be email to you.  Enter this code when prompted.
  4. A list of recovery codes will be generated. Download and save them securely to your computer.
  5. Click Confirm to complete the setup. 

You can download more detailed instructions, including screen captures for each step, by clicking here.