Towards an anonymous incident communication channel for electric smart grids

Abstract

The Electric Smart Grid (ESG) is an intelligent critical infrastructure aiming to create an automated and distributed advanced energy delivery network, while preserving information privacy. This study proposes the implementation of an Anonymous Incident Communication Channel (AICC) amongst smart grids across Europe to improve situational awareness and enhance security of the new electric intelligent infrastructures. All participating organizations will have the ability to broadcast sensitive information, stored anonymously in a repository, without exposing the reputation of the organisation. This work focuses on the requirements of establishment, the possible obstacles and proposed data protection techniques to be applied in the AICC. Furthermore, a discussion is conducted regarding the documentation of cyber-incidents. Last but not least, the benefits and the potential risks of this AICC concept are also provided.