TRUST-BASED DETECTION OF MALICIOUS NODES IN WIRELESS SENSOR NETWORKS

Abstract

Despite their extensive value, wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are vulnerable to many security concerns, particularly from rogue nodes. Owing to their constrained resources, sensor nodes often fail to adhere to established security rules. This study presents a trust-based methodology for recognizing and differentiating malicious nodes in wireless sensor networks (WSNs). The system continuously modifies trust scores by assessing the reliability of each node based on its operational attributes, such as packet forwarding efficiency, data accuracy, and communication consistency. A node is classified as malignant when its score is below a designated threshold. The proposed strategy enhances data accuracy, reduces false positives, and improves network stability. The simulation results indicate that the trust-based method effectively reduces processing power consumption while ensuring secure and uninterrupted network operations.