A Systematic Review of Bio-Cyber Interface Technologies and Security Issues for Internet of Bio-Nano Things (2106.14273v1)

Abstract: Advances in synthetic biology and nanotechnology have contributed to the design of tools that can be used to control, reuse, modify, and re-engineer cells' structure, as well as enabling engineers to effectively use biological cells as programmable substrates to realize Bio-Nano Things (biological embedded computing devices). Bio-NanoThings are generally tiny, non-intrusive, and concealable devices that can be used for in-vivo applications such as intra-body sensing and actuation networks, where the use of artificial devices can be detrimental. Such (nano-scale) devices can be used in various healthcare settings such as continuous health monitoring, targeted drug delivery, and nano-surgeries. These services can also be grouped to form a collaborative network (i.e., nanonetwork), whose performance can potentially be improved when connected to higher bandwidth external networks such as the Internet, say via 5G. However, to realize the IoBNT paradigm, it is also important to seamlessly connect the biological environment with the technological landscape by having a dynamic interface design to convert biochemical signals from the human body into an equivalent electromagnetic signal (and vice versa). This, unfortunately, risks the exposure of internal biological mechanisms to cyber-based sensing and medical actuation, with potential security and privacy implications. This paper comprehensively reviews bio-cyber interface for IoBNT architecture, focusing on bio-cyber interfacing options for IoBNT like biologically inspired bio-electronic devices, RFID enabled implantable chips, and electronic tattoos. This study also identifies known and potential security and privacy vulnerabilities and mitigation strategies for consideration in future IoBNT designs and implementations.

• The paper systematically reviews bio-cyber interface technologies, explores their role in IoBNT architecture, and examines critical security issues.
• It details security threats using the STRIDE model and highlights challenges for lightweight security solutions in resource-constrained nanonetworks.
• The review emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration needed to address design, security, and deployment challenges for effective IoBNT systems.

A Comprehensive Examination of Bio-Cyber Interface Technologies and Security Issues for the Internet of Bio-Nano Things

The paper "A Systematic Review of Bio-Cyber Interface Technologies and Security Issues for Internet of Bio-Nano Things" offers an in-depth analysis of the transformative intersection between synthetic biology, nanotechnology, and the Internet of Bio-Nano Things (IoBNT). The development of IoBNT involves the integration of biological systems with nanoscale technologies, paving the way for innovations in intra-body applications such as targeted drug delivery and continuous health monitoring. However, these advancements bring forth unique challenges, particularly in interfacing and security.

Architectural Insights and Security Concerns

The authors present a detailed IoBNT architecture comprising several critical components: bio-nano things, nanonetworks, bio-cyber interfaces, gateway devices, and medical servers. Bio-nano things function as nanoscale computing entities, exploiting unique biological properties for detection and interaction at the nanoscale. Communication within these nanosystems predominantly relies on novel paradigms like molecular communication (MC) and nano-electromagnetic (EM) techniques, as traditional communication methods are inadequate.

One pivotal focus of the paper is the bio-cyber interface, a mechanism crucial for seamless interaction between biological systems and technological networks. The paper identifies technologies such as RFID sensors, electronic tattoos, and bio-electronic devices as promising bio-cyber interfacing options. These devices are essential for translating biochemical signals into forms suitable for electronic communication and vice versa, but they also present security vulnerabilities.

Security Framework and Existing Solutions

The research systematically categorizes potential threats using the STRIDE model—encompassing Spoofing, Tampering, Repudiation, Information Disclosure, Denial of Service, and Elevation of Privilege—and examines efforts in mitigating such threats. Biological and chemical interfaces, consequently, become potential entry points for adversaries aiming to disrupt or manipulate these systems.

In nanonetworks, threats range from eavesdropping to more complex attacks like blackhole and sentry attacks, where malicious entities mislead or disrupt communication pathways. The paper emphasizes the necessity of lightweight, robust security solutions tailored to the constrained resources of these nanodevices, suggesting cryptographic approaches, external device authentication, and intrusion detection systems.

Future Directions and Theoretical Implications

This review underscores the interdisciplinary nature of advancing IoBNT technology. It calls for collaborative efforts across computer science, biology, and nanotechnology to address design, security, and deployment challenges comprehensively. Theoretical implications suggest that the integration of nano-communications with larger networks could redefine data collection and diagnostics in healthcare, necessitating secure frameworks to protect sensitive biological data.

With advancements in bio-nano interfaces and secure communication models, the IoBNT has the potential to transform personal healthcare delivery and biometric monitoring. However, aligning these with efficient security measures remains paramount to achieving their full potential.

In conclusion, the paper lays the groundwork for future research by highlighting open challenges in ensuring a secure, efficient, and effective IoBNT ecosystem. This includes developing novel bio-inspired cryptographic mechanisms and experimenting with interdisciplinary strategies to mitigate emerging threats. The authors suggest that addressing these challenges will significantly advance the field, potentially spearheading a new era of personalized, secure medical technologies.