A Brief Survey of Recent Advances and Methodologies for the Security Control of Complex Cyber–Physical Networks

Abstract

Complex cyber–physical networks combine the prominent features of complex networks and cyber–physical systems (CPSs), and the interconnections between the cyber layer and physical layer usually pose significant impacts on its normal operation. Many vital infrastructures, such as electrical power grids, can be effectively modeled as complex cyber–physical networks. Given the growing importance of complex cyber–physical networks, the issue of their cybersecurity has become a significant concern in both industry and academic fields. This survey is focused on some recent developments and methodologies for secure control of complex cyber–physical networks. Besides the single type of cyberattack, hybrid cyberattacks are also surveyed. The examination encompasses both cyber-only hybrid attacks and coordinated cyber–physical attacks that leverage the strengths of both physical and cyber attacks. Then, special focus will be paid to proactive secure control. Reviewing existing defense strategies from topology and control perspectives aims to proactively enhance security. The topological design allows the defender to resist potential attacks in advance, while the reconstruction process can aid in reasonable and practical recovery from unavoidable attacks. In addition, the defense can adopt active switching-based control and moving target defense strategies to reduce stealthiness, increase the cost of attacks, and limit the attack impacts. Finally, conclusions are drawn and some potential research topics are suggested.