The 5-digit short code 87397 is a legitimate, shared SMS short code used by several major online platforms for Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), account verification, and security alerts. Companies that frequently use this short code include Indeed, Twitch, and Wealthsimple.
If you receive a text message from 87397 containing a verification code, it is likely a legitimate security alert triggered by an action on one of these services. However, if the text is unsolicited and you didn’t recently try to log in, it may be a smishing (SMS phishing) attempt. This guide will help you determine the sender and provide steps to secure your accounts.
Who Sends Text Messages from Short Code 87397?
Short codes are specialized 5 or 6-digit numbers that are leased by businesses and organizations to send high volumes of secure or marketing text messages. Unlike standard 10-digit phone numbers, short codes are pre-approved by mobile carriers, adding a layer of legitimacy and security.
The 87397 short code is known to be a shared code, meaning multiple companies use the same number for their outbound messaging. The primary and most common senders associated with 87397 are major services that rely on SMS for high-security functions:
- Indeed: Used for job alert notifications, login verification, or application confirmations.
- Twitch: Used for account security, password resets, and two-factor authentication (2FA).
- Wealthsimple: Used for financial account security and verification codes when linking accounts or logging in.
In nearly all cases, the message from 87397 is an automated security prompt, such as providing a one-time passcode (OTP) to complete a login or a password reset.
How to Determine if the 87397 Text is a Scam
The legitimacy of the 87397 text message depends entirely on your recent activity. You must cross-reference the text with your immediate actions.
| Message Scenario | Likelihood of Legitimacy | Recommended Action |
| You just tried to log in to Indeed, Twitch, or another service. | High | Enter the code immediately on the official website/app you were using. |
| You did NOT try to log in, but the text contains a 6-digit code. | High | DO NOT use the code. Someone else attempted to access your account. Your 2FA is working. Proceed to the troubleshooting steps below. |
| The text contains a suspicious link, no code, and asks you to “verify” or “click here.” | Low (SCAM) | DO NOT click the link. This is a smishing attempt. Report the message to 7726 and delete it. |
The Smishing Red Flag: Unsolicited Codes
If you receive an unexpected 2FA code from 87397 text message when you haven’t recently tried to log in to any service, it’s a critical security warning. It means:
- A scammer or unauthorized user has already obtained your username and password (likely leaked in a data breach).
- They are now attempting the second step of logging in—requesting the verification code from your phone.
- The fact that they cannot log in without the code confirms that your Two-Factor Authentication is working and protecting your account.
Security and Troubleshooting: What to Do Next
If you receive an unsolicited text from 87397, take these immediate, crucial actions to secure your information.
- Change Your Password Immediately
The highest priority is to assume your password for the associated service (e.g., Indeed, Twitch, Wealthsimple) has been compromised.
- DO NOT click any link in the text message.
- Go directly to the service’s official website (e.g., tv) through your browser, not the text.
- Log in and immediately change your password to a strong, unique combination. Use a password manager if possible.
- Report the Spam Text Message
Reporting the suspicious text helps your mobile carrier identify and block similar messages, protecting yourself and others.
- Forward the entire original text message to the short code 7726 (which spells SPAM).
- Your carrier (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, etc.) will usually reply, asking you to send the original sender’s number (87397) to complete the report.
- Upgrade Your Two-Factor Security
SMS-based 2FA is susceptible to sophisticated scams (SIM-swapping). For maximum security, switch to an app-based 2FA solution (like Google Authenticator or Authy) on your most sensitive accounts.
How to Stop Unwanted Texts from 87397
If you are receiving unwanted promotional messages (not security codes) from the 87397 text message sender, and you suspect it’s a legitimate company you previously opted into, you should try the official unsubscribe method:
- Reply to the message with the keyword STOP.
If the sender is legitimate and compliant, this action will automatically remove you from their distribution list. Warning: Never reply with STOP to messages you suspect are from hackers or scammers, as this only confirms your number is active.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Why do so many different companies use the same short code?
The 87397 short code is a “shared” short code. Companies use shared codes because they are less expensive and faster to deploy than dedicated codes. A service provider leases the code and allows multiple clients (like Indeed or Twitch) to use it for specific functions. The backend system correctly routes the message based on the content or a unique identifier associated with the brand.
- Can scammers spoof a short code like 87397?
While it is more difficult than spoofing a regular 10-digit number, some scammers can manipulate or “spoof” the appearance of a short code. However, the most common scam involving 2FA codes from 87397 is not spoofing, but social engineering, where the scammer has stolen your password and is trying to trick you into sending them the legitimate code.
- Should I block the 87397 number on my phone?
No, you should not block the 87397 short code. If you block this number, you will prevent yourself from receiving future legitimate security codes, verification messages, and password resets from services like Indeed, Twitch, and Wealthsimple, potentially locking yourself out of your own accounts when you need to access them.
- What if the text says I won a prize from 87397?
If the text from 87397 is an unsolicited notification about winning a large prize or gift card, it is a scam. Legitimate security short codes are rarely, if ever, used for lottery or prize promotion scams. Do not click any links or provide any personal information. Report the message to 7726 immediately.
