Once upon a time, a utility company would deal from and with a person who had a listed address. Have noticed if talking with a person where a “new” service is being requested the SS number comes up. Have turned down “new” services requested when my number was asked for, and/or offered that company an affidavit to sign. No takers to sign the affidavit, I do not do business. I am not protected. The affidavit would not protect me. None in the U.S. are protected. I look at what is taking place as a grand illusion where and when told me information is secure. In the brave new world of computers, nothing is secure. Most just give the information requested and business transpires. To be total honest, I do not believe there is anything which is secure, and if anything is secure it is not going to be on some computer somewhere where someone can steal it. Therefore security is long gone.
The above (typing) is an opinion. The reader should decide for themselves if the information provided is actual and/or factual.