Review of Physical Layer Security in Molecular Internet of Nano-Things

Molecular networking has been identified as a key enabling technology for Internet-of-Nano-Things (IoNT): microscopic devices that can monitor, process information, and take action in a wide range of medical applications. As the research matures into prototypes, the cybersecurity challenges of molecular networking are now being researched on at both the cryptographic and physical layer level. Due to the limited computation capabilities of IoNT devices, physical layer security (PLS) is of particular interest. As PLS leverages on channel physics and physical signal attributes, the fact that molecular signals differ significantly from radio frequency signals and propagation means new signal processing methods and hardware is needed. Here, we review new vectors of attack and new methods of PLS, focusing on 3 areas: (1) information theoretical secrecy bounds for molecular communications, (2) key-less steering and decentralized key-based PLS methods, and (3) new methods of achieving encoding and encryption through bio-molecular compounds. The review will also include prototype demonstrations from our own lab that will inform future research and related standardization efforts.