Directed acyclic graph-based blockchains for enhanced cybersecurity in the Internet of Medical Things
Abubakar Aliyu, Abubakar Aminu Mu’azu, A U Adamu · 2024
To strengthen cybersecurity in the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT), this chapter examines the use of blockchains based on Directed Acyclic Graphs (DAGs). Securing private medical data and guaranteeing the integrity of networked medical devices become critical challenges as the IoMT scenario changes. The chapter leverages the efficiency and resilience of DAG-based blockchains against certain attacks. The proposed access control approach is built on the decentralised and impenetrable structure of Tangle, a DAG-based consensus technique. A novel framework for access control is presented, which represents IoMT entities with DAG structures. Directed edges encode dynamic relationships and permissions, whereas nodes represent medical equipment, healthcare providers, and patients. Blockchain-integrated smart contracts automate access decisions, guaranteeing adherence to healthcare laws and enabling real-time modifications to access rights. Security considerations encompass encryption protocols for secure communication, decentralised identity solutions for authentication, and immutable audit trails to meet regulatory requirements. To facilitate interoperability and smooth data sharing, the chapter puts a strong emphasis on integrating the access control mechanism with the current healthcare systems. The proposed solution aims to revolutionise IoMT cybersecurity by addressing the particular difficulties faced by the healthcare industry, namely security, and scalability. Furthermore, metrics like Elapsed Time vs. Number of Nodes, Access Rate vs. Number of Nodes, and Throughput vs. Number of Nodes are used to evaluate the implementation of the suggested access control, demonstrating observable improvements. The chapter emphasises how DAG-based blockchains might improve IoMT cybersecurity in a revolutionary way. This study enhances the security of developing healthcare systems amid the growth of linked medical devices and digital health technologies by providing a clear and flexible access control mechanism.