sun818 - 7:28 am on Feb 8, 2008 (gmt 0)

The request you received is standard procedure. Get an EIN (Employer Identification Number) and give that out instead of your SSN. It is free and you can apply for one online: [irs.gov...]

You usually submit a W9 to the requester as well:
[irs.gov...]

I think email attachment of a filled out W9 is fast, accurate, and secure. Fax is okay, but you should inquire if it is private or shared.