A cyber-physical digital twin approach to replicating realistic multi-stage cyberattacks on smart grids

TL;DR

This paper introduces a cyber-physical digital twin framework that simulates multi-stage cyberattacks on smart grids, enabling secure testing and analysis of grid vulnerabilities in a controlled environment.

Contribution

It presents a novel integrated digital twin approach combining communication and power grid simulation for realistic cyberattack replication on smart grids.

Findings

Effective attack replication in laboratory settings

Insights into communication infrastructure vulnerabilities

Validation of the digital twin approach

Abstract

The integration of information and communication technology in distribution grids presents opportunities for active grid operation management, but also increases the need for security against power outages and cyberattacks. This paper examines the impact of cyberattacks on smart grids by replicating the power grid in a secure laboratory environment as a cyber-physical digital twin. A simulation is used to study communication infrastructures for secure operation of smart grids. The cyber-physical digital twin approach combines communication network emulation and power grid simulation in a common modular environment, and is demonstrated through laboratory tests and attack replications.