AI-Driven Problem Solving for Cyber-Physical Systems Security: An Assessment Framework

Abstract

Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) are using more AI for smart decisions and automation, but also faces new security issues. This study surveys existing CPS security assessment methodologies across healthcare, automotive, energy, and critical infrastructure, identifying their limitations in addressing emerging digital-physical threats. We find that traditional risk assessment and testing approaches, often network-centric and compliance-driven, are insufficient for AI-powered CPS. New vulnerabilities arise from the tight coupling of cyber and physical components, such as adversarial manipulation of sensors that can cause dangerous misbehavior, supply chain attacks on AI models, and the inability to patch critical devices on the fly. We use AI techniques and problem-solving methods to improve the security of CPS. The framework helps detect threats, monitor system activities, and reduce security risks in real time. It also follows important security and privacy standards such as NIST, IEC 62443, ISO 21434, and GDPR. The system continuously checks CPS operations, uses AI tools to find weaknesses, and supports security compliance. We also study real-world CPS attacks, including industrial malware, car hacking, and medical device attacks, to show the importance of the framework. In this research, we present prototype implementation and experimental evaluation along with a case study of protecting a smart manufacturing plant during a ransomware attack using the proposed approach.