Probabilistic key predistribution in mobile networks resilient to node-capture attacks

Abstract: We present a comprehensive analysis on connectivity and resilience of secure sensor networks under the widely studied q-composite key predistribution scheme. For network connectivity which ensures that any two sensors can find a path in between for secure communication, we derive the conditions to guarantee connectivity in consideration of (i) node-capture attacks, where the adversary may capture a set of sensors and compromise keys in their memory; (ii) sensor mobility, meaning that sensors can move around so that the network topology may change over time; (iii) physical transmission constraints, under which two sensors have to be within each other's transmission range for communication; (iv) the boundary effect of network fields; and (v) link unreliability, meaning that links are allowed to be unreliable. In contrast, many prior connectivity analyses of secure sensor networks often ignore the above issues. For resilience, although limited studies have presented formal analysis, it is often assumed that the adversary captures a random set of sensors, whereas this paper allows the adversary to capture an arbitrary set of sensors. We present conditions to ensure unassailability and unsplittability in secure sensor networks under the q-composite scheme. Unassailability ensures that an adversary capturing any set consisting of a negligible fraction of sensors can compromise only a negligible fraction of communication links although the adversary may compromise communications between noncaptured nodes which happen to use keys that are shared by captured nodes. Unsplittability means that when a negligible fraction of sensors are captured, almost all of the remaining nodes are still securely connected. Based on the results of connectivity, unassailability and unsplittability, we provide useful guidelines for the design of secure sensor networks.