The difference is that back in “the days” (which sadly I am too young to have experienced), the information you were giving away usually stayed with who asked for it.

I personally wouldn’t mind giving some personal information away to a corner shop if it would allow them to serve me better (as in have more relevant products for me - even though technically they’d be making more money off me because I would be shopping there more frequently).

I do however mind giving out personal information when I know it’s gonna be leaked to thousands of shitty companies including Facebook and Equifax and be offered to the highest bidder, including those with nefarious motives.