Water distribution systems are undergoing a process of intensive digitalization, adopting networked devices for monitoring and control. While this transition improves efficiency and reliability, these infrastructures are increasingly exposed to cyber-attacks. Cyber-attacks engender anomalous system behaviors which can be detected by data-driven algorithms monitoring sensors readings to disclose the presence of potential threats. At the same time, the use of sonification in real time process monitoring has grown in importance as a valid alternative to avoid information overload and allowing peripheral monitoring. Our project aims to design a sonification system allowing human operators to take better decisions on anomalous behavior while occupied in other (mainly visual) tasks. Using a state-of-the-art detection algorithm and data sets from the Battle of the Attack Detection Algorithms, a series of sonification prototypes were designed and tested in the real world. This paper illustrates the design process and the experimental data collected, as well results and plans for future steps.

INTRODUCTION: We present early results of an ongoing investigation into the use of sound for real-time monitoring of anomalous behaviour in digital and digital/physical systems. OBJECTIVES: We aim to define design guidelines to both support authors in the process of creating sonifications that are both efficient and engaging and the transition of sonification into a mass medium for the representation of data in everyday life. METHODS: Through two Design Actions, we apply Design Research to the definition of the use case, the interaction paradigm and the experimental protocol for real-world evaluation of sonification tools. RESULTS: Two Design Actions are described. Methodologies and results of the first experimental phase are presented in detail along with their influence on the second phase, currently ongoing. CONCLUSION: We sketch a tentative design-driven process for sonifications for the real-time monitoring of anomalous behaviour in digital and digital/physical systems.

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