# Cybersecurity in Power Grids: Challenges and Opportunities

arXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/2105.00013 · HTML: https://mlsanity.com/paper/2105.00013/

## Key facts

- Cited by 3 papers in the map (data through 14 Oct 2026).
- First posted on arXiv 30 Apr 2021.

## Built on by (most cited first, 3 of 3)

- [Federated Learning for Smart Grid: A Survey on Applications and Potential Vulnerabilities](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2409.10764/) (2024)
- [The Role of Deep Learning in Advancing Proactive Cybersecurity Measures for Smart Grid Networks: A Survey](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2401.05896/) (2024)
- [Towards Robust Stability Prediction in Smart Grids: GAN-based Approach under Data Constraints and Adversarial Challenges](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2501.16490/) (2025)

## Abstract (arXiv)

Increasing volatilities within power transmission and distribution force power grid operators to amplify their use of communication infrastructure to monitor and control their grid. The resulting increase in communication creates a larger attack surface for malicious actors. Indeed, cyber attacks on power grids have already succeeded in causing temporary, large-scale blackouts in the recent past. In this paper, we analyze the communication infrastructure of power grids to derive resulting fundamental challenges of power grids with respect to cybersecurity. Based on these challenges, we identify a broad set of resulting attack vectors and attack scenarios that threaten the security of power grids. To address these challenges, we propose to rely on a defense-in-depth strategy, which encompasses measures for (i) device and application security, (ii) network security, (iii) physical security, as well as (iv) policies, procedures, and awareness. For each of these categories, we distill and discuss a comprehensive set of state-of-the art approaches, and identify further opportunities to strengthen cybersecurity in interconnected power grids.