At least in theory, Windows Update would be used to force an upgrade to the newest driver. Which in turn could implement serial number blocking.

My recent GPU did not come with any sort of CD. They expect you to get drivers from the internet.

A serial number is independent of the driver while the past drivers could have a network check.

Consumer rights haven't taken a loss because there is no consumer and no rights. Users have no right to use stolen property. The have rights when they legitimately acquire the product.

Even if its changed hands, its still illegal to purchase stolen property and the police will just take it from you without compensating you.

I'd argue that serial number checks would be the company protecting it's property. It would be far better if the company could rely on the state to protect its property.

I also really don't see activation lock as consumer rights taking a loss, thieves aren't consumers. Being able to brick hardware that thieves steal is a consumer protection. If EVGA started to block resale, that would be a completely different story, but I was happy to activation lock my stolen iPhone. Apple lets you resell, but if you steal a truck load of iPhones I doubt they would activate.