Welcome to the forum. I am signed up with 150+ companies. I have not had any problems providing my SS# and personal information on the website's of the companies. I provide NO information through e-mail and I do not respond to e-mail requests from companies to provide information, nor do I respond to requests for information (or job offers) from companies I have not signed up with. Be very sure the company you are applying with is legitimate. For a list of legitimate mystery shopping companies, see the blue link at the bottom of the page, Official List of Mystery Shopping Companies. Good luck shopping!