US warns of Italy terror attack

Italy has increased security in the wake of the US attacks

The United States says terrorists might be planning to attack "symbols of American capitalism" in Italy.

The US embassy in Rome said in a statement that the State Department had received information that unspecified targets might be attacked in the next month.

US citizens are urged to maintain a high level of vigilance

The statement urged all US citizens in Italy to be on their guard and "avoid contact with any suspicious, unfamiliar objects".

The warning did not mention any link to the 11 September attacks on New York and Washington.

The statement said: "The department has received information that 'symbols of American capitalism' in Italy might be targeted for attack in the next month.

"US citizens are urged to maintain a high level of vigilance and to increase their security awareness."

Security measures

Security at American interests in Italy has been stepped up as part of a worldwide heightened alert since the attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon last month.

The Associated Press news agency says additional measures being considered include putting Italian licence plates on US military vehicles at the Aviano air base in northern Italy.

The Italian Government has also tightened security at several American companies by increasing surveillance and providing a police presence.