A novel vulnerability detection method for ZigBee MAC layer. (1st January 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Peng, Siwei; Cui, Baojiang; Jia, Ru; Liang, Shurui; Zhang, Yiying
• Is Part Of: International journal of grid and utility computing. Volume 4:Number 2/3(2013)
• Page Start: 134
• Page End: 143
• Publication Date: 2013-01-01
• Subjects: vulnerability detection method -- ZigBee -- MAC layer -- test tool -- border condition -- ZBCBT; Electronic data processing -- Distributed processing -- Periodicals; Electronic commerce -- Management -- Computer programs -- Periodicals; 004.605
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1741-847X

Abstract

Due to the hostile environment, open communication and implementation vulnerability, ZigBee is vulnerable to various attacks. But there are few effective vulnerability detection methods. In this paper, we design the ZigBee Border Conditions Based Tester (ZBCBT) to detect vulnerabilities on MAC layer. It generates elaborated frames (test cases) transmitting to the target nodes. Based on ZBCBT, we present a ZigBee Border Conditions Algorithm (ZBCA) and a hostile test framework (HTF) for better test performance. Comparing with Random Testing (RT) or fuzz methods, ZBCA tests border values of every field in the frame to improve the efficiency. HTF is a unique framework that ZBCBT simulates an attacker is utilised for further tests. The experimental results, including one frame triggers the network crash, have proved ZBCBT's effectiveness. Thus, by using ZBCA and HTF, this novel vulnerability detection method is a significant add-on approach for ZigBee security.