Beijing ? The U.S. government warned Friday of possible terrorist threats to American interests and places where Americans gather in China, particularly in major cities.

The notice, posted on the Web site of the U.S. Embassy in Beijing and transmitted by e-mail to American citizens, said the warning was based on unconfirmed information.

It said American interests in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou may be at higher risk, along with restaurants, places of worship, schools and other places where Americans gather.

Embassy spokeswoman Sheila Paskman said the possible threats were specific to China and not part of a larger regional or worldwide alert.

“This is China-specific,” she said, declining to elaborate.

Americans were not being urged to alter their travel plans or normal business, she said.

“This particular notice is simply asking people to be aware of threats,” she said.