DTACK: Digital Twin–based Framework for Analyzing Cyberattacks for Intelligent Transportation System

Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) have evolved from electro-mechanical to sophisticated Electrical and Electronic (E/E) systems, enhancing capabilities but also introducing cybersecurity vulnerabilities. To safeguard against attacks, cybersecurity must be integrated across the ITS life cycle, including comprehensive testing of all security mechanisms. However, this is costly, time-consuming, and requires a unique test environment.

While Digital Twins are used by automotive manufacturers for system performance and production efficiency, they are rarely used for ITS security testing. DTACK project aims to use Digital Twins to replicate security attacks on ITS components in different life-cycle phases, creating a safe environment for emulating attacks and testing security mechanisms. The developed environment can also be used to benchmark these mechanisms for effectiveness and efficiency.

Keywords: Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), Digital Twin, Cybersecurity, Automated Security Testing

Our goals

  • Digital Twin-Based Replication: Develop a robust framework for creating accurate digital replicas (Digital Twins) of Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) components, enabling the emulation of cyber-attacks across different phases of the life cycle.

  • Safe and Controlled Testing Environment: Establish a secure testing environment that allows for the automated and structured testing of both real and virtualized ITS components. This environment ensures the exploration of potential cyber threats without compromising safety or incurring financial risks.

  • Validation and Benchmarking: Utilize the created environment to validate the effectiveness and efficiency of various security mechanisms deployed within ITS. The project aims to benchmark these security measures, providing insights into their performance under different cyber-attack scenarios and contributing to the enhancement of overall ITS cybersecurity.

DTACK addresses a critical need in our rapidly evolving technological landscape. Our work directly contributes to creating a safer, more resilient future for smart transportation. Witnessing the intersection of cutting-edge cybersecurity practices with the transformative potential of Digital Twins is not just academically stimulating; it’s a chance to pioneer solutions that will shape the security landscape of tomorrow

Investigators

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