Blockchain for Security in Digital Twins

Rahanatu Suleiman, Akshita Maradapu Vera Venkata Sai (), Wei Yu () and Chenyu Wang
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Rahanatu Suleiman: Department of Computer and Information Sciences, Towson University, Towson, MD 21252, USA
Akshita Maradapu Vera Venkata Sai: Department of Computer and Information Sciences, Towson University, Towson, MD 21252, USA
Wei Yu: Department of Computer and Information Sciences, Towson University, Towson, MD 21252, USA
Chenyu Wang: Department of Software Engineering and Game Development, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA 30144, USA

Future Internet, 2025, vol. 17, issue 9, 1-35

Abstract: Digital Twins (DTs) have become essential tools for improving efficiency, security, and decision-making across various industries. DTs enable deeper insight and more informed decision-making through the creation of virtual replicas of physical entities. However, they face privacy and security risks due to their real-time connectivity, making them vulnerable to cyber attacks. These attacks can lead to data breaches, disrupt operations, and cause communication delays, undermining system reliability. To address these risks, integrating advanced security frameworks such as blockchain technology offers a promising solution. Blockchains’ decentralized, tamper-resistant architecture enhances data integrity, transparency, and trust in DT environments. This paper examines security vulnerabilities associated with DTs and explores blockchain-based solutions to mitigate these challenges. A case study is presented involving how blockchain-based DTs can facilitate secure, decentralized data sharing between autonomous connected vehicles and traffic infrastructure. This integration supports real-time vehicle tracking, collision avoidance, and optimized traffic flow through secure data exchange between the DTs of vehicles and traffic lights. The study also reviews performance metrics for evaluating blockchain and DT systems and outlines future research directions. By highlighting the collaboration between blockchain and DTs, the paper proposes a pathway towards building more resilient, secure, and intelligent digital ecosystems for critical applications.

Keywords: blockchain; digital twins; cyber attacks; privacy; data authentication; smart contracts (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O3 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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