Impacts of Cyber Attack on Performance of Current-Based Relays in Transmission Lines

Cyber-attacks can interfere with digital protection relays, modifying their command outputs to circuit breakers. This study aims to present monitoring methods for current-based relays under the threat of cyber-attacks, with a focus on overcurrent and current differential relays. These relays are valued for their fast, sensitive, selective, and secure operation. However, their susceptibility to cyber intrusions poses significant challenges to the reliability and security of power grids. The research employs a comprehensive approach, combining theoretical analysis and simulation studies of current relays in the face of cyber-attacks. Various cyber-attack scenarios, including malicious communication interference, data manipulation, and false data injection attacks, are considered to gauge the relay's ability to operate accurately and swiftly under adversarial conditions. This research has simulated various attacks in MATLAB/SIMULINK environment for a two-bus system model. Simulations are performed to replicate potential cyber threats and measure the impact on protection relay operations. The study of this research provides insightful information into the vulnerabilities of current-based relays to cyber intrusions and offers practical recommendations for enhancing their cybersecurity posture.