First stage detection of compromised nodes in sensor networks

• Published in: 2010 IEEE Sensors Applications Symposium (SAS) pp. 20 - 24
• Main Authors: Wei Ding, Laha, B., Yenduri, S.
• Format: Conference Proceeding
• Language: English
• Published: IEEE 01-02-2010
• Subjects: Cloning; compromised nod; Energy efficiency; first stage detection; Global Positioning System; Humans; Monitoring; node capture attack; Probes; Proposals; sensor networks; Sensor phenomena and characterization; Vehicles; Wireless sensor networks
• ISBN: 9781424449880; 142444988X
• DOI: 10.1109/SAS.2010.5439387

The node capture attack in wireless sensor networks (WSNs) can be decomposed into three stages: physically capture of node, redeployment of compromised node, and rejoin the network for various insider attacks. A well accepted belief - that the physical capture is easy to implement and that its detection is difficult - has directed majority of research effort to defense in stages three and two. The belief was recently proved false [4]. The discovery made first stage detection an attractive tactic. This paper proposes a new approach to detect the attack at the first stage. The detection is based upon the discovery of missing and malfunction of nodes due to the physical capture. The approach is simple, reliable, energy-efficient, completely local, and completely distributed. It can be used along with other approaches at stages two and three. Hence it could be employed in wide range of applications. In simulation we compare our proposal to one of latest successful research in the area. [2] Simulation results have proved that our approach is more effective and more efficient for in detection of node capture attacks.