As a result of a compromise of a FoxNews.com Twitter account on Monday by hackers people were reported that US President Barack Obama died. Six false tweets were sent from the media source account informing that Obama had been shot dead, prompting an investigation by the Secret Service.

"Hackers sent out several malicious and false tweets that President Obama had been assassinated," Foxnews.com said in a statement about the latest in a wave of high-profile cyber security breaches around the world.

"Those reports are incorrect, of course, and the president is spending the July 4 holiday with his family."

FoxNews said the incident was being checked.

"The hacking is being investigated, and FoxNews.com regrets any distress the false tweets may have created," it said.

Obama is celebrating the July 4 Independence holiday with his family at the White House and was due to host military families to watch Fourth of July fireworks in the evening.

The White House declined to comment. The Secret Service, which is charged with protecting the president, said it was looking into the incident.

"The Secret Service is investigating the matter and will conduct the appropriate follow-up," spokesman George Ogilvie said.