Securing the future: Integrating quantum computing and digital twin technologies into modern power & transportation systems for resilient smart cities against false data injection cyberattacks

The rapid evolution of smart cities relies on the integration of advanced technologies to enhance urban infrastructure, ensure system resilience, and address growing cybersecurity challenges. Toward that end, this paper scrutinizes the convergence of quantum computing (QC) and digital twin (DT) technologies as a novel solution to mitigate false data injection (FDI) cyberattacks, an escalating threat to the integrity of data-driven power and transportation systems. By combining the computational advantages of quantum algorithms with the real-time monitoring and simulation capabilities of DTs, this paper proposes an integrated framework along with a novel optimization algorithm for early detection, prevention, and mitigation of FDI attacks. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is demonstrated through a modified IEEE 39-bus power system coupled with an urban transportation network, highlighting improved system security, operational efficiency, and sustainability. This work contributes a forward-looking pathway for securing interconnected smart city infrastructures against evolving cyber threats.