Why all places ask for your social security number as an "ID"?

I'm frustrated because every place seems to rely on their social security number of an "ID" number, ie, dentist offices, clinics, online affiliate programs, etc. I think that with all of the stealing identity, who prefer to create a single identification system that would not potentially have them legal risk should their systems or an employee give others access these numbers (even ebay and government offices have been victims of hackers get ahold of this information.) I'm not comfortable giving my number social insurance to all, and frequently got into heated discussions when they refuse to do so. I think only my direct employer and the IRS should have access to it. In an era of computing, the allocation of "unique" numbers in a database is easy, do not believe that something as valuable as a social security number must be used simply because it is already in place. Places even ask my 6 year old number, and when the press, saying it will not disclose which tend to think of another option …..

While I agree with you, social security number is really a unique system of identification. " No one else has the same number that you do, so it is unique. It's a little strange that, although the Social Security number is used mainly for tax purposes is also used to do the simplest things, like getting a dentist appointment. I guess all you can do is suck it up and check your finances thoroughly to prevent identity theft.

Camtasia – Niche Opportunities – Video 10 – Affiliate Id’s