US waters down cyber security plans

Plans to step up cyber security in the US have been watered down following industry pressure.

According to news website Ananova, draft plans have omitted several expected directives, including an initiative requiring companies to contribute to a national computer security fund, and another to restrict the use of emerging wireless networks until their security is approved.

The Cyber Security Panel is part of the White House, but has no statutory power to compel federal agencies or companies to follow its directives.

The aim of its work is to address fears that America's hi-tech infrastructure is vulnerable to terrorist attacks.

Much of the infrastructure - banking, transportation and utilities networks - is owned and operated by private corporations.

But many companies feel that they can't afford the changes the committee wants to implement.