Modeling node compromise spread in wireless sensor networks using epidemic theory

Abstract

Motivated by recent surfacing viruses that can spread over the air interfaces, in this paper; we investigate the potential disastrous threat of node compromise spreading in wireless sensor networks. Originating from a single infected node, we assume such a compromise can propagate to other sensor nodes via communication and pre-established mutual trust. We focus on the possible epidemic breakout of such propagations where the whole network may fall victim to the attack. Based on epidemic theory, we model and analyze this spreading process and identify key factors determining potential outbreaks. In particular, we perform our study on random graphs precisely constructed according to the parameters of the network, such as distance, key sharing constrained communication and node recovery, thereby reflecting the true characteristics therein. The analytical results provide deep insights in designing potential defense strategies against this threat. Furthermore, through extensive simulations, we validate our model and perform investigations on the system dynamics