While I think employers have every right to ask whatever kinds of questions they want to ask, I also don't think that credit checks are reasonable requirements for most jobs. If she were handling a large amount of cash, or she were going to have the authority to spend significant company money without supervision, then it would make sense. But for a temp-to-hire data entry position, it seems utterly unnecessary.
Mind you, I don't think this is racism, just poor corporate policy.
Mega dittos!