Utilizing fractional derivatives and sensitivity analysis in a random framework: a model-based approach to the investigation of random dynamics of malware spread

In this study, an ordinary-deterministic equation system modeling the spread dynamics of malware under mutation is analyzed with fractional derivatives and random variables. The original model is transformed into a system of fractional-random differential equations (FRDEs) using Caputo fractional derivatives. Normally distributed random variables are defined for the parameters of the original system that are related to the mutations and infections of the nodes in the network. The resulting system of FRDEs is simulated using the predictor-corrector method based fde12 algorithm and the forward fractional Euler method (ffEm) for various values of the model components such as the standard deviations, orders of derivation, and repetition numbers. Additionally, the sensitivity analysis of the original model is investigated in relation to the random nature of the components and the basic reproduction number ( $R_{0}$ ) to underline the correspondence of random dynamics and sensitivity indices. Both the normalized forward sensitivity indices (NFSI) and the standard deviation of $R_{0}$ with random components give matching results for analyzing the changes in the spread rate. Theoretical results are backed by the simulation outputs on the numerical characteristics of the fractional-random model for the expected number of infections and mutations, expected timing of the removal of mutations from the network, and measurement of the variability in the results such as the coefficients of variation. Comparison of the results from the original model and the fractional-random model shows that the fractional-random analysis provides a more generalized perspective while facilitating a versatile investigation with ease and can be used on different models as well.