DeMiRaR-6T: A new defense method for detecting and mitigating rank attacks in RPL-based 6TiSCH networks

Abstract

The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) has revolutionized the industrial sector with advanced automation and connectivity. IIoT applications widely implement the IPv6 over the Time Slotted Channel Hopping (TSCH) mode of IEEE 802.15.4e (6TiSCH) protocol in conjunction with the Routing Protocol for Low-Power and Lossy Networks (RPL) to ensure reliable communication. However, the RPL protocol is vulnerable to security attacks that target network topology, traffic, and node resources. These attacks pose significant risks to the integrity and reliability of IIoT systems, particularly rank attacks, in which malicious nodes manipulate rank values to disrupt communication. In order to enhance the security of IIoT technology, this study introduces DeMiRaR-6T, a method that effectively detects and mitigates rank attacks in 6TiSCH networks. DeMiRaR-6T relies on two key components. First, it incorporates a monitoring mechanism that continuously tracks node behavior, analyzing network activities to identify abnormal patterns indicative of rank attacks. Second, it utilizes a centralized authority (Join Registrar/Coordinator, Rank Control Unit) to maintain and disseminate an updated list of attacker nodes. This trusted entity collects information about malicious nodes and notifies other network participants, enabling them to adapt their communication strategies and take preventive actions. Through this comprehensive approach, DeMiRaR-6T enhances the security of RPL-based 6TiSCH networks. Experimental results demonstrate that under attack conditions, DeMiRaR-6T achieves up to a 12% increase in packet delivery rate and a 20% improvement in throughput compared to state-of-the-art methods. Additionally, notable enhancements are observed in control packet overhead, end-to-end delay, and energy consumption.