IMO, Leaked is probably the better word here. Equifax did not steal the data in the first place either, they recorded/copied it from other sources which leaked or sold it to them.
Every data source (such as a bank or credit card) provides that data to CRAs because consumers granted permission to do so when entering into a business relationship. Either that, or it's publicly available data purchased from aggregators.
Wildly unfeasible. The consumer does not have a choice, they do not have an ability to live within their means without incurring credit checks.
Take housing - perhaps it is possible to purchase outright a home with cash, however you will not find generally anyone willing to take payment in cash.
If you cannot afford that and are not taking a loan, then you must rent. However you cannot rent without a credit score.
So no the consumer did not consent to anything. This is a ridiculous and dishonest viewpoint.
