CARES-Live: ServiceNow Customer Service Management (CSM) Portal – Multi-Factor Authentication | Starting Aug. 29, 2025

All CARES-Live County Administrators and SPOCs:

To better protect customer data and align with security standards, the CWDS Customer Service Management (CSM) Portal hosted by ServiceNow will begin enforcing Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) starting
August 29, 2025.

What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)? MFA adds an extra layer of security to your account by requiring two or more verification factors to prove your identity. After you enter your username and password, you will be prompted for a second step, such as a code from an authenticator app on your phone.

What to Expect
The CSM Portal will be unavailable on August 28, 2025, between 6:00PM – 11:59PM. Starting August 29, 2025, you will have one of two different enrollment experiences.
  • If you log in between August 29, 2025 - November 26, 2025:
You will see a banner at the top of your screen reminding you to set up MFA. You will have a 30-day grace period to complete the self-enrollment. While you can continue to log in with your username and password during this time, the banner will remain visible until you enroll. After the grace period ends, you will be required to enroll immediately upon your next login. Here is a screenshot of the banner message:
  • If you do not log in until after November 26, 2025:
There is no grace period. The very first time you attempt to log in after this date, you will be immediately prompted to enroll in MFA. You will be unable to access the system until you have successfully completed the enrollment process.

Need Help?
If users experience any issues setting up MFA, please contact the CARES Service Desk through the CSM Portal (if able to log in). Alternate methods are phoning 1-855-292-3444 or
via email at Servicedesk@cwds.ca.gov during normal business hours. You may also email after hours, and a Service Desk representative will contact you the next business day.
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