Equifax has been ordered to pay $15 million by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) due to improper investigations into credit reporting errors and mishandling consumer disputes. This penalty highlights serious concerns regarding the accuracy of credit scores, which have affected numerous consumers. Additionally, Equifax has settled complaints in New York, agreeing to pay $725,000 for inaccuracies in credit score reporting that resulted in raised costs for consumers. These developments signal a significant step toward accountability in credit reporting practices.