Securing localization-free underwater routing protocols against depth-spoofing attacks

Abstract

Localization-free depth-based opportunistic routing protocols are an energy efficient choice for underwater wireless sensor networks (UWSNs). However, most depth-based routing protocols are vulnerable to sinkhole attacks caused by depth spoofing. In this paper, we propose an energy-efficient depth-based probabilistic routing protocol (DPR) that is resilient against depth spoofing. By encouraging unqualified (suboptimal) relay nodes to randomly forward data packets, the adversarial effects of depth-spoofing can be mitigated. As the randomized forwarding probability increases, a better packet delivery ratio can be achieved when under depth-spoofing attacks. To keep energy consumption in check, we propose a simulation-based methodology for finding the optimal forwarding probability. By adjusting the unqualified node forwarding probability, the proposed DPR protocol can effectively resist depth-spoofing attacks with a reasonably efficient energy overhead. A delivery ratio exceeding 90% can be achieved under attack with energy overhead as low as 35% under normal conditions. In comparison with relevant existing protocols, the proposed protocol achieves better energy efficiency, resilience efficiency, and scalability.