Abstract
The energy system is undergoing a radical transformation. The coupling of the energy system with advanced information and communication technologies is making it possible to monitor and control in real-time generation, transport, distribution and consumption of energy. In this context, a key enabler is represented by smart meters, devices able to monitor in near real-time the consumption of energy by consumers.
If, on one hand, smart meters automate the process of information flow from endpoints to energy suppliers, on the other hand, they may leak sensitive information about consumers. In this paper, we review the issues at stake and the research challenges that characterise smart grids from a privacy and security standpoint.