StegoDCF: A New Covert Channel for Smart Grids Utilizing the Channel Access Procedure in Wi-Fi Networks

Marek Natkaniec () and Jakub Dyrcz
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Marek Natkaniec: Institute of Telecommunications, AGH University of Krakow, al. Mickiewicza 30, 30-059 Krakow, Poland
Jakub Dyrcz: Institute of Telecommunications, AGH University of Krakow, al. Mickiewicza 30, 30-059 Krakow, Poland

Energies, 2024, vol. 17, issue 9, 1-26

Abstract: Wi-Fi networks within the smart grid play a vital role in enabling communication between smart meters and data collectors. They are also frequently used in automation and metering, distribution control and monitoring, and distribution protection. However, a significant challenge arises from the uncertainty surrounding the genuine identity of data recipients. In this paper, we propose an efficient and novel covert channel that leverages the IEEE 802.11 DCF to transmit data requiring a high level of security. It is also the world’s first covert channel supporting quality of service (QoS). Our protocol was implemented and tested in the ns-3 simulator, achieving very high-performance results. Its performance remains robust even under saturated network conditions with additional background traffic generated by other stations. This covert channel presents a novel approach to securely transmitting large amounts of QoS data within the smart grid.

Keywords: smart grid; IEEE 802.11; covert channel; DCF; backoff procedure; QoS (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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