Researchers from the Universidad Europea del Atlántico (European University of the Atlantic, UNEATLANTICO), Aman Singh and Roberto Marcelo Álvarez, are involved in a study that proposes an intelligent computational model to improve the security of interconnected blockchain and IoT systems.
The Internet of Things (IoT) is a sophisticated communication network that uses personal data from each sensor. It aims to connect technological developments such as personalized digital technology, industrial equipment, humans and tangible organizations to obtain desired user outcomes. However, it faces a number of security issues, due to the use of unsecured tools to extend the IoT communication range. In addition, the ability of sensor nodes to switch from one channel to another can present considerable risk.
To address these security concerns, the IoT platform standard has adopted a “zero trust” principle as the basis for securing data centers and IT platforms. This means that any authorized hardware can connect to the Internet or use system resources. However, by circumventing security mechanisms, malicious actors can conduct illicit activities in parallel through the nodes embedded in the IoT ecosystem. This creates a complicated situation, as many IoT systems are highly vulnerable and lack adequate protection. This scenario facilitates the possibility of malicious abuse of the existing entry point mechanism in the IoT ecosystem.
In this context, this study proposes an intelligent computational security model for an interconnected blockchain-IoT system. It focuses on leveraging blockchain technology, known for its decentralized and secure nature for data storage, management and sharing, and combining it with advanced encryption algorithms. Through the use of data trees, it seeks to represent and retain the hash values of preliminary data blocks along with transaction data and timestamp, generating a secure blockchain without human intervention.
The incorporation of encryption algorithms, such as the enhanced McEliece cryptosystem and asymmetric encryption, allows the encryption and decryption process to be accelerated, drastically reducing the number of steps required. This greatly benefits the proposed model, improving its efficiency and modularity.
Successful implementation of this computationally intelligent model would have a significant impact on the reliability and future of the Internet of Things. Interconnected cities in particular would benefit from the superior security offered by this combination between blockchain and advanced encryption. Therefore, this study has the potential to open up new opportunities in a wide range of sectors, including industry, commerce and people’s daily lives.
If you want to learn more about this study, click here.
To read more research, consult the UNEATLANTICO repository.
The Iberoamerican University Foundation (FUNIBER) promotes several study programs in the area of technology, such as the Master’s Degree in Strategic Management in Software Engineering. This program is oriented to train dynamic, creative and leading professionals capable of leading business projects focused on software development.