Is it legal to give a fake Social Security Number in instances that do not involve payment?

Someone from the Travel Channel found a clip of mine on YouTube that they want to use for a show. I was like "what the heck, sure." They emailed me a release, but it has a line for my Social Security Number, which they have no need for.

I am not being paid for the clip.

No, it is not legal to give out false SSN, it would be fraud.

As to the Travel Channel wanting to use a YouTube Clip, if you were asked for your SSN# it was likely for income tax reporting if they are considering paying you any fee for the clip; to provide a false # would be not only fraud, but income tax evasion. It they are not paying you a dime, just asking permission, I would cross the section out and write "not necessary" on the release...it would up to them and their legal team if they want to accept the release and use you footage, or just scrap the whole idea.

I would leave it blank, rather than report an incorrect number.

Just don't give it out. Of asked why, tell them that they have absolutely no need for it. Someone can get a lot of damage to you if it gets in the wrong hands.

Simply leave it blank or fill in N/A if they question you tell them you are not comfortable giving it out.

i wouldnt think it was legal to give a fake one, just leave it blank.

Are they paying for the clip? If so they must report it for tax purposes. If not, just leave it blank.