Taxonomy of Wireless Sensor Network Cyber Security Attacks in the Oil and Gas Industries

Abstract

The monitoring of oil and gas plants using sensors allows for greater insight into safety and operational performance. However, as a result of strict installation regulations of powered sensors near oil and gas fittings, the introduction of new wired sensors to optimize end-of-lifecycle plants has been expensive, complex and time consuming. Recent advances in wireless technology have enabled low-cost Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) capable of robust and reliable communication. However, the critical WSN security issues have not been sparsely investigated. The goal of this paper is to define the security issues surrounding WSNs with specific focus on the oil and gas industry.