A Comprehensive Review on Cyber-Attacks in Power Systems: Impact Analysis, Detection, and Cyber Security modules
ABSTARCT :
Continuous communication and information technology advancements facilitate the modernization of the conventional energy grid into an integrated platform. Internet-of-Things (IoT) incorporates power systems, particularly smart grid features and the delivery of new services from the utility side to the end user over a two-way communication channel.
However, severe security vulnerabilities have been created due to over-dependency on IoT based communication systems. In addition, critical information exchange between any two entities or devices is always an appealing target for cyber-attackers, especially with financial interest motive by damaging integrity, confidentiality and authenticity in a communication channel.
Maintaining data security and preserving privacy in between two entities during the transmission or any data distribution are essential. The potential attacks and impacts of those attacks need to be investigated to develop an effective cyber security infrastructure. Thus, considerable researchers focused on detection and mitigation of these vulnerable cyber-attacks using advanced computation tools.
This review article thoroughly investigated possible ways to address cyber security challenges such as smart meter security, end-users privacy, electricity theft cyber-attacks using blockchain and cryptography against communication attacks in smart grid.
The operational impacts of cyber-attacks on power system security, as well as the economic impact on deregulated energy markets, have been extensively explored.
In addition, the robustness of security features and cryptographic methods against various cyber-attacks is investigated to suggest unexplored cyber-attacks for future scope. Specially, the study of real-world cyber security events, case studies, new findings and new scopes in diverse power industries are carried out.
More than 135 research articles has been examined for this review article. This paper mainly concentrates on distribution-side cyberattacks with impact analysis, detection and protection techniques.
EXISTING SYSTEM :
Unlike traditional LFCs, which relied on dedicated communication channels to transfer signals between the generator unit, control centre, and remote terminal units (RTUs), modern deregulated power system LFC methods make use of open communication infrastructure.
Attacks such as channel jamming, fake data injection, power system load modifications, and others are more likely to affect the highly decentralised LFC design with an open communication network [4].
Furthermore, LFC techniques are required to produce control signals on a second-by-second basis. Hence, sophisticated data validation algorithms for estimating and validating measurement data are out of the question for the LFC loop.
DISADVANTAGE :
System Disruptions: Cyber-attacks can cause real-time failures in power grid operations, leading to power outages and disruptions. For example, attacks on SCADA or control systems can interfere with the ability to monitor and control grid operations, potentially causing cascading failures across the power network.
Impact on Market Stability: Cyber-attacks can affect energy markets, causing price fluctuations and loss of consumer trust in energy providers, which impacts the financial stability of both utilities and the wider market.
National Security Threats: Power systems are considered part of critical national infrastructure. An attack could jeopardize the nation’s defense capabilities, emergency response services, and public safety by disrupting essential services like healthcare and transportation.
Interoperability Issues: Power systems often consist of a mix of components from different vendors, which may not be fully compatible with each other. This lack of standardization can create vulnerabilities and make it difficult to implement uniform
PROPOSED SYSTEM :
That fact has catapulted tensions across global powers, making cyber warfare a more significant aspect of modern geopolitical conflict. Collective efforts by governments, organisations, and individuals will be required to solve the prevalence of cyber threats.
Cybersecurity measures must keep pace with this ever-changing threat landscape. Now, firewalls and anti-virus software are not enough. Modern companies have a way of taking a much more holistic approach to security: zero-trust architecture, multi-factor authentication, AI-driven threat detection, real-time monitoring of network activities, and much more.
According to regulatory requirements, many jurisdictions have introduced new frameworks to strengthen cyber resilience. Some of the brightest initiatives developed to evolve security standards include the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation and the United States' Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.
This review paper tries to analyse current cyber-attack trends, assess the far-reaching impacts such incidents have, and discuss strategies that governments, organisations, and individuals can take to step up and respond to the growing threats.
ADVANTAGE :
Phishing and Social Engineering: Cyber-attacks exploiting human vulnerabilities to gain access to network systems.
Physical Layer Security (PLS): Techniques that protect the physical communication channels used in power systems from cyber-attacks.
Security Information and Event Management (SIEM): Integrating multiple security systems into a centralized platform to improve threat detection and response.
Regulations and Standards: Industry standards and government regulations (e.g., NIST, IEC 62443) help utilities and power grid operators implement adequate security measures, ensuring overall system integrity.
Legacy Systems: Older power grid infrastructure and control systems that are not designed with modern cybersecurity measures.
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