you don't have to start a credit account with something big like a car or a house, it could be something small, like a washing machine or dryer from the store.
This is how memories work. Overexposure similar to film reels. It was right in front of us the whole time. Everything that's the same looks the same, only the things that slightly stand out are remembered. The same reason you remember your school so vividly but, the memories of people and faces have faded. Only the most specific, impactful memories have stayed with you.
I'm old enough to remember a simpler time on the internet when you were scared someone on the other side of the screen was an elite hacker who would track you down, come to your house and beat you up and not scared because you posted an opinion on an account that had your name and address on it for all to see. There has to be an accountability to which side of the gullible spectrum you're on.