A Reputation-Based Energy-Efficient Transaction Propagation Mechanism for Blockchain-Enabled Multi-Access Edge Computing

Abstract

Blockchain strengthens reliable collaboration among entities through its transparency, immutability, and traceability, leading to its integration into Multi-access Edge Computing (MEC) and promoting the development of a trusted JointCloud. However, existing transaction propagation mechanisms require MEC devices to consume significant computing resources for complex transaction verification, increasing their vulnerability to malicious attacks. Adversaries can exploit this by flooding the blockchain network with spam transactions, aiming to deplete device energy and disrupt system performance. To cope with these issues, this paper proposes a reputation-based energy-efficient transaction propagation mechanism that alleviates spam transaction attacks while reducing computing resources and energy consumption. Firstly, we design a subjective logic-based reputation scheme that assesses node trust by integrating local and recommended opinions and incorporates opinion acceptance to counteract false evidence. Then, we optimize the transaction verification method by adjusting transaction discard and verification probabilities based on the proposed reputation scheme to curb the propagation of spam transactions and reduce verification consumption. Finally, we enhance the transaction transmission strategy by prioritizing nodes with higher reputations, enhancing both resilience to spam transactions and transmission reliability. A series of simulations demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed mechanism.