Kristie, I understand how you feel about putting your SS# out there on the web.
Here's are some precautions that I take:
use PayPal when available;
if inputting your SS#, make sure the connection is encrypted...if it isn't, move on.
defer adding your social until you are sure that you will be shopping for them;
finally, keep track of who you give your information to.
"I told myself to quit you; but I don't listen to drunks." -Chris Stapleton