Blockchain-Enabled IoV: Secure Communication and Trustworthy Decision-Making

TL;DR

This paper addresses the dual challenges of secure communication and trustworthy decision-making in the Internet of Vehicles (IoV) by proposing a two-layer blockchain-enabled framework. The Primary Layer handles inter-vehicle identities and routing, while the Sub-layer secures intra-vehicle interactions; two key protocols, Blockchain-integrated Secure Authentication (BiSA) and Decentralized Blockchain Name Resolution (DBNR), secure identities, enforce mutual authentication, and provide immutable routing information. BiSA enables blockchain-based identity verification with a PBFT-inspired process to establish encrypted channels, whereas DBNR maintains decentralized, immutable mappings to ensure accurate, tamper-proof routing data within vehicles and across the network. Collectively, the framework enhances security against MITM and impersonation, improves data integrity for decision-making, and supports safer, more reliable autonomous driving and scalable smart transportation systems.

Abstract

The Internet of Vehicles (IoV), which enables interactions between vehicles, infrastructure, and the environment, faces challenges in maintaining communication security and reliable automated decisions. This paper introduces a decentralized framework comprising a primary layer for managing inter-vehicle communication and a sub-layer for securing intra-vehicle interactions. By implementing blockchain-based protocols like Blockchain-integrated Secure Authentication (BiSA) and Decentralized Blockchain Name Resolution (DBNR), the framework ensures secure, decentralized identity management and reliable data exchanges, thereby supporting safe and efficient autonomous vehicle operations.

Figures (2)

• Figure 1: Overall structure of the outer layer.
• Figure 2: Overall structure of the inner layer.