Cryptographic Protocol with Keyless Sensors Authentication for WBAN in Healthcare Applications

Abstract

Nowadays, technological advances provide people with more facilities and luxuries in life. Medicine is no exception; for example, different wireless sensors can be used to monitor patients’ state of health. These sensors are used in the so-called Wireless Body Area Networks (WBAN), to improve the efficiency of doctor-patient activities at any time, in any body area, and anywhere. However, health data contains sensitive information that becomes a critical issue requiring special attention when transmitted within a WBAN. In other words, WBAN must be protected from malicious devices that intercept, alter or access without authorization or even deny the health information being transmitted. In this article, we present the design of a new cryptographic protocol that guarantees three security services, authentication, confidentiality, and integrity by securing sensitive information communication through a WBAN. We also consider a keyless sensors authentication method to distinguish whether or not the devices are placed on the same individual’s body. A formal analysis of the protocol is carried out using cryptographic protocol verification tools to guarantee its correct construction and that it provides appropriate security.