Romanian Cyber Security Journal / Spring 2026, No. 1, Vol. 8

Securing Mechatronic Control Modules in the Context of Current Cyber Threats

Dănuț-Iulian STANCIU, Ioana PETCU, Vlad MANGHER

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Abstract

The increasing integration of connectivity, embedded intelligence, and remote management has turned classical mechatronic systems into complex cyber-physical systems (CPS). While this evolution enables greater efficiency, flexibility and autonomy, it also exposes mechatronic platforms to cyber threats capable of producing direct physical consequences. Unlike traditional IT systems, cyber-attacks on mechatronic systems can compromise control loops, manipulate sensor data, or induce unsafe actuator behavior. This article overviews the cybersecurity threats to modern mechatronic systems, presents the threat landscape specific to embedded control environments, and discusses engineering-oriented security mechanisms suitable for real-time and safety-critical applications. Additionally, we include a practical methodology for securing an integrated mechatronic control module of a concentrating solar system that is connected to the Internet and performs firmware updates over the network. At the same time, our study positions cyber security as a fundamental design constraint in contemporary mechatronics and highlights future research directions relevant to critical infrastructures.

Keywords

industrial control systems, Safety, Embedded Security, Cyber-physical Systems, Mechatronics, Cyber Security