Auntie, I've been through the process; it is totally legitimate and very worthwhile cooperating.  I was as curious, even skeptical as you seem to be, when the initial email arrived full of the boilerplate you mention.  So when the phone call took place I had some hard questions to ask.  Every one was answered to my satisfaction.  

I recommend you go ahead with this, with your own comfort level of caution.

Lope