SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Identity theft is on the rise, and the California Credit Union League is helping consumers link up from its public Web site to information from the Federal Trade Commission, US Department of Justice, California Department of Consumer Affairs and other consumer groups. The tips found there range from how to avoid becoming a victim of identity theft, to steps to take if consumers suspect their identity has been stolen. "Identity theft can strike anyone, with devastating consequences for their credit, their ability to obtain loans or get a job, and even putting them at risk of being arrested for crimes committed by the identity thieves," said Steve Renock, CCUL senior vice president of marketing/communication. "There's no question this type of crime is on the rise, with Californians as a major target, and consumers and credit unions alike need to know how identity thieves operate so consumers can take steps to protect themselves, and credit unions can help protect their members." The new section of the League site is accessible from the "Education" selection on the pull-down menu at www.ccul.org/philosophy/identity_ fraud.htm.