Location verification using bidirectional one-way hash function in wireless sensor networks

Abstract

Evolving networks of wireless ad hoc sensing nodes have many attractive applications. Localisation, that is to determine where a given node is physically located, is a key enabler for many applications of sensor networks. As sensor networks move closer to extensive deployments, security becomes a major concern, resulting in a new demand for secure localisation and location proving systems. We propose a secure localisation system based on a secure hop algorithm. A location verification system that allows the base station to verify the location claims of sensor nodes is also presented. It prevents a node from falsifying reported location information and can be used for location-based access control. In order to support the resource-constrained sensor nodes, the proposed approach makes use of efficient one-way hash functions. Finally, we report the evaluation of the secure localisation system. The proposed scheme performs well under a range of scenarios tested and is resilient against an attacker creating incorrect location information in other nodes.