A review of US cyber defence policy has been ordered by President Barack Obama, suggesting that there could be a change in America's approach to online security.

Currently, various agencies are involved in preventing an attack against America through the Internet. With the Department of Homeland Security, National Security Council and various branches of the military involved, the review suggests the process could be simplified.

The review into the system intends to measure what current online security measures are currently being taken, and to suggest possible changes.

John Brenna, President Obama's assistant for counterterrorism and homeland security, said in a statement: "The national security and economic health of the United States depend on the security, stability, and integrity of our nation's cyberspace, both in the public and private sectors."

As infrastructures such as communications, finance and transportation become reliant on the Internet, online security is becoming a growing concern across all sectors.

Brenna added: "If you get in our systems and you're trying to destroy banking records or electric power distribution or transportation, it could have a debilitating effect on the country."

Experts have recently warned that the threat of cybercrime is increasing, and each year online theft costs as much as $1 trillion. While a recent report has shown that 2009 could see an increase in security spending, a recent survey from Network Box found that two-thirds of UK companies are still failing to take their Internet security seriously.

Obama plans an internet security review