Can I use the SSN of a friend, family member, or employee to get an EIN?

No, the IRS does not authorise the use of nominees to obtain EINs. All EIN applications must disclose the name of the true principal officer, general partner, grantor, owner or trustor. This individual or entity, which the IRS will call the "responsible party," controls, manages, or directs the applicant entity and the disposition of its funds and assets.

Therefore we do not advise nor recommend founders to "use" another person's SSN as this is directly unauthorised by the IRS. You should only use an SSN if that person is genuinely a member of the company.

https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/responsible-parties-and-nominees