Your phone buzzes with a text from a 5-digit number you don’t recognize: 97539. Unlike some short codes that are clearly tied to a specific brand, a quick search for this one might leave you with more questions than answers. Is it a marketing message? A scam? Or something else entirely?
If you’ve received a 97539 text message, you’re encountering a number that isn’t publicly linked to a single, major U.S. company. This guide will help you understand the most likely reasons you received this text and the exact steps you should take to stay safe.
What Is an SMS Short Code?
First, a quick refresher. A short code is a 5- or 6-digit number that businesses use to send and receive text messages at scale. They are commonly used for:
- Marketing promotions and coupons.
- Appointment reminders and shipping alerts.
- Two-factor authentication (2FA) and security codes.
While many brands use a “dedicated” short code that belongs only to them, others may use “shared” or non-unique codes, which can make identifying the sender more difficult.
The Mystery of the 97539 Text Message: Potential Senders
The 97539 text message most often falls into the category of verification or transactional alerts, which could come from a wide range of services.
The Most Likely Reason: A Verification Code
The most common use for a number like this is to send a one-time verification code. When you sign up for a new service or log in to an existing account, many companies will text you a code to prove you are the owner of the phone number.
A 97539 text message could be a legitimate code from countless apps and online services, including:
- Social media platforms.
- Dating apps like Tinder or Hinge.
- Ride-sharing or food delivery services.
- E-commerce sites.
These services often use third-party messaging providers (like Twilio) that manage large pools of short codes. This means the 97539 text message you received could be from a different company than one someone else received it from, even on the same day.
Is It a Mistake or a Phishing Attempt?
If you receive an unexpected verification code from a 97539 text message, it typically means one of two things:
- An Innocent Mistake: Someone else, somewhere in the country, was trying to sign up for a service and accidentally typed in your phone number instead of their own. The system sent the code to you by mistake. This is usually harmless.
- A Phishing Attempt: This scenario is more serious. A scammer may have gotten your username and password for an online account and is now trying to log in. The system, as a security measure, has sent the verification code to your phone. The scammer is hoping you will share that code with them, giving them the final key to access your account.
How to Safely Handle a 97539 Text Message
Your response should depend entirely on whether you were expecting the message.
If You Were Expecting a Code…
If you just tried to log into an app or create a new account and were waiting for a code, then the 97539 text message is almost certainly for you. It is safe to use the code to complete your login.
If the Message Is Completely Unexpected…
If you were not doing anything that would require a verification code, you must treat the message with caution. Follow these critical security steps:
- NEVER Share the Code: Your verification code is a temporary key to your account. Never give it to anyone over the phone, in a text, or via email. No legitimate company will ever call you and ask for your verification code.
- Do Not Click Any Links: If the text contains a link, do not click on it. It could lead to a malicious website designed to steal your information.
- Secure Your Accounts: The unexpected code attempt is a major red flag that one of your passwords may have been compromised. Proactively go to your important accounts (especially email, banking, and social media) and change your passwords to be safe.
- Block the Number: If you receive repeated, unwanted messages, use your phone’s built-in feature to block the 97539 text message short code.
- Reply “STOP”: For marketing messages, replying “STOP” is a legally recognized command to opt out. While it may not work for transactional verification codes, it’s worth trying if the messages are promotional.
In conclusion, while a 97539 text message can feel random, it’s most likely a security verification code from one of thousands of possible services. The golden rule is simple: if you didn’t ask for it, don’t share it. By treating unexpected codes as a warning, you can keep your digital accounts safe and secure.
