Please be advised that on May 11, 2025 the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts (AO) will begin implementing multifactor authentication (MFA) to enhance system security for CM/ECF and PACER. MFA provides an added layer of security to accounts by helping protect against cyberattacks that steal passwords, significantly reducing the risk of unauthorized access. 

Once implemented, all CM/ECF and PACER users will be able to enroll in MFA. Users with filing and all other types of CM/ECF-level access will be required to enroll in MFA, while users with PACER-only access will have the option to enroll.  

Users with CM/ECF-level access who do not voluntarily enroll will be randomly selected to do so beginning in August. By the end of 2025, everyone with CM/ECF-level access will be required to use MFA when logging in.

NOTE: If using a third-party software for filing, users should ensure MFA is supported by that software before enrolling to avoid any disruption in their business processes.

Users can download any authentication application (app) that supports a time-based one-time password (TOTP). The AO does not endorse specific apps, however, some options include Authy, DUO Mobile, FreeOTP, Google Authenticator, and Microsoft Authenticator. Before enrolling in MFA, the AO recommends that users research available authentication apps to decide which one will work best for them and then download their preferred app. 

Additionally, users who are unable to download an authentication app will be able to save one-time use backup codes. Once users have used all their backup codes, they will need to request a new batch.

If you have any questions, please contact the PACER Service Center at pacer@psc.uscourts.gov or at (800) 676-6856. The PACER Service Center hours of operation are Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Central Time.

You can find out more information regarding MFA at the PACER website here.