Model-Free Detection of Cyberattacks on Voltage Control in Distribution Grids

Incorporating information and communication technology in the operation of the electricity grid is undoubtedly contributing to a more cost-efficient, controllable, and flexible power grid. Although this technology is promoting flexibility and convenience, its integration with the electricity grid is rendering this critical infrastructure inherently vulnerable to cyberattacks that have potential to cause large-scale and far-reaching damage. In light of the growing need for a resilient smart grid, developing suitable security mechanisms has become a pressing matter. In this work, we investigate the effectiveness of a model-free state-of-the-art attack-detection method recently proposed by the cybersecurity community in detecting common types of cyberattacks on voltage control in distribution grids. Experimental results show that, by monitoring raw controller and smart-meter data in real time, it is possible to detect denial of service, replay, and integrity attacks, thus contributing to a resilient and more secure grid.