Integrating Sensing and Communications in 6G? Not Until It Is Secure to Do So

TL;DR

This paper discusses the security and privacy challenges introduced by Integrated Sensing and Communications (ISAC) in 6G and surveys physical-layer security (PLS) strategies, such as artificial noise, constructive/destructive interference, and sensing-aware protections, to secure dual-function waveforms. It emphasizes sensing privacy threats—including transmitter, target confidentiality, and location leakage—and outlines corresponding countermeasures, including beamforming, privacy-preserving precoding, and RIS-assisted techniques. The authors further explore sensing-assisted PLS and covert communication to leverage ISAC's environment awareness for proactive security, while identifying open challenges like passive target classification, cross-layer security, and the need for more sensing-privacy research. The work aims to guide robust, low-latency ISAC deployment in future networks by integrating security and privacy into end-to-end design and operation.

Abstract

Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC) is emerging as a cornerstone technology for forthcoming 6G systems, significantly improving spectrum and energy efficiency. However, the commercial viability of ISAC hinges on addressing critical challenges surrounding security, privacy, and trustworthiness. These challenges necessitate an end-to-end framework to safeguards both communication data and sensing information, particularly in ultra-low-latency and highly connected environments. Conventional solutions, such as encryption and key management, often fall short when confronted with ISAC's dual-functional nature. In this context, the physical layer plays a pivotal role: this article reviews emerging physical-layer strategies, including artificial noise (AN) injection, cooperative jamming, and constructive interference (CI), which enhance security by mitigating eavesdropping risks and safeguarding both communication data and sensing information. We further highlight the unique privacy issues that ISAC introduces to cellular networks and outline future research directions aimed at ensuring robust security and privacy for efficient ISAC deployment in 6G.

Figures (16)

• Figure 1: Data security and sensing privacy threats caused by unauthorized receivers in ISAC systems: (a) Data security, (b) Sensing privacy.
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