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Dr Mohammad Abdussami, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, has made a significant contribution to the field of Internet of Things (IoT) security with the publication of his paper titled “APDEAC-IoT: Design of Lightweight Authenticated Key Agreement Protocol for Intra and Inter-IoT Device Communication Using ECC with FPGA Implementation.” This groundbreaking research has been published in the esteemed Q1 journal Computers and Electrical Engineering, which boasts an impact factor of 4.

Dr Abdussami’s research addresses critical security challenges faced by IoT devices, particularly in facilitating secure communication between intra and inter-device networks. The lightweight authenticated key agreement protocol he has developed utilizes Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) and Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) implementation to enhance the security framework of IoT ecosystems.

As the adoption of IoT devices continues to expand across various sectors, the importance of robust security protocols cannot be overstated. Dr Abdussami’s work is poised to make a substantial impact on how devices communicate safely and efficiently, ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of data transmitted over the network.

As the demand for secure IoT solutions continues to grow, Dr Abdussami’s research stands as a beacon for future developments in this crucial area, potentially paving the way for safer and more efficient IoT interactions globally.

Abstract:

In this research work, we proposed a fog-enabled network architecture integrated with IoT devices (Intra and Inter-domain IoT devices) and developed the DEAC-IoT scheme using Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) for secure authentication and key agreement. Our protocol is designed to protect device-to-device communication from security threats in resource-constrained IoT environments.

Citation format:

Abdussami Mohammad, Sanjeev Kumar Dwivedi, Taher Al-Shehari, P. Saravanan, Mohammed Kadrie, Taha Alfakih, Hussain Alsalman, and Ruhul Amin. “DEAC-IoT: Design of lightweight authenticated key agreement protocol for Intra and Inter-IoT device communication using ECC with FPGA implementation.” Computers and Electrical Engineering 120 (2024): 109696.

Explanation of the Research in Layperson’s Terms:

With more and more devices connecting wirelessly through the Internet of Things (IoT) (think of smart home gadgets, wearables, etc.), keeping their communications secure has become a big priority. However, many current communication methods for IoT devices don’t provide strong enough security. This leaves them open to cyber-attacks.

The challenge is to create a security system that is safe from attacks and doesn’t require too many computations. This is important because IoT devices often have limited resources (like low battery power or slower processors).

In this research, the authors have devised a solution: a new type of network setup (called fog-enabled architecture) that connects IoT devices with each other and with external devices. They’ve also developed a security protocol called DEAC-IoT, which uses Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC)—a highly efficient method for securing communications.

Their system makes it easier for IoT devices to authenticate (verify each other’s identity) and securely exchange keys (used to encrypt data), all while being lightweight enough to run on devices that don’t have a lot of processing power or energy.

In short: the paper offers a way to securely connect IoT devices with minimal computations, making communication between devices safe from hackers, even in environments where cyber threats are common.

Practical Implication and Social Implications Associated:

The practical implementation of this research can strengthen the security of IoT devices across many sectors, from homes and cities to healthcare and industries. The proposed DEAC-IoT scheme can also be used to implement vehicle to vehicle secure communication in autonomous vehicles, VANETs and Internet of Vehicles scenario.

Socially, it can enhance trust in IoT technology, protect privacy, safeguard critical infrastructure, and promote economic and technological development—while ensuring security remains affordable even in resource-constrained environments.

In Industrial IoT (IIoT) Scenario: In industries where machines are connected via IoT (such as in factories), devices need to communicate securely to ensure the smooth running of production lines. The DEAC-IoT protocol could secure these communications, preventing industrial espionage or sabotage.

Future Research Plans

1. Design of group key authentication protocols for IoT devices communication.
2. Design of handover authentication protocols for Fog-enabled IoT devices communication.
3. Design of quantum safe authentication protocols for vehicle-to-vehicle communication

Collaborations:

1. Dr Sanjeev Kumar Dwivedi, Centre of Artificial Intelligence, Madhav Institute of Technology and Science (MITS), Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 474005, India.
2. Dr Taher Al-Shehari, Computer Skills, Department of Self-Development Skill, Common First Year Deanship, King Saud University, 11362, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
3. Dr Mohammed Kadrie, Computer Skills, Department of Self-Development Skill, Common First Year Deanship, King Saud University, 11362, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
4. Dr P Saravanan, Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, PSG College of Technology, Coimbatore, India.
5. Dr Ruhul Amin, Department of Computer Science & Engineering, IIIT Naya Raipur, Naya Raipur 493661, Chhattisgarh, India
6. Dr Taha Alfakih, Department of Information Systems, College of Computer and Information Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11543, Saudi Arabia
7. Dr Hussain Alsalman, Department of Computer Science, College of Computer and Information Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11543, Saudi Arabia

Link to the Article

The Directorate of International Relations and Higher Studies (IR & HS), led by Dr Sudeshna Saha, Assistant Director and Sandeep Samala, Deputy Manager, embarked on a fruitful academic expedition tour to Kuala Lumpur from September 30 to October 3, 2024. This initiative aimed to foster collaboration between SRM University-AP and several prestigious Malaysian institutions.

The primary objectives of the expedition were to explore collaborative opportunities, identify potential research partnerships, and promote matching grants that would mutually benefit the participating institutions.
During the expedition, a significant milestone was achieved with the signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with several prominent Malaysian universities. Among them were the University of Malaya (#60 in QS World University Rankings 2025), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (#181), Sunway University (#539), and Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (#800-#850). Additionally, collaborations were established with Malaysia University of Science and Technology (#88 in Asian University Rankings-Southeastern Asia 2024), Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (#139), University Malaysia of Computer Science & Engineering, and UNITAR International University.

The primary objectives of the visit were multi-faceted:

1. Exploring Collaborative Opportunities: The expedition aimed to identify and establish potential research collaborations between SRM University-AP and Malaysian institutions, fostering an environment conducive to joint academic exploration.

2. Promoting Matching Grants: The delegation sought to encourage initiatives such as matching grants that mutually benefit both institutions, enhancing research capabilities and funding opportunities.

3. Co-hosting Conferences: Plans were established to organise joint conferences, seminars, or workshops that facilitate the sharing of research findings and help build a robust academic network.

4. Collaborating on Scientific Projects: The institutions discussed initiating and supporting collaborative scientific research projects reflecting their combined strengths.

5. Focused Research Areas: Identifying key research areas for collaboration was paramount, with a commitment to connect with relevant Points of Contact (PIC) at the University of Malaya.

6. Joint Publications: The MoUs aim to foster partnerships for co-authored publications, thereby benefiting both institutions’ academic output.

7. Postgraduate Supervision: The institutions are committed to enhancing academic development by collaborating in the joint supervision of postgraduate students, emphasising PhD candidates.

8. Staff Mobility & Research Initiatives: A significant focus was placed on facilitating academic staff exchange programs to promote staff mobility and collaborative research initiatives.

9. Undergraduate Mobility Programs: Developing student mobility programs, including summer schools or student exchange opportunities, for undergraduates was a key part of the discussions.

The expedition successfully laid the groundwork for future collaborations, focusing on immersion programs, research internships, student and faculty mobility, and joint research initiatives.

As SRM University-AP continues to establish itself as a leader in higher education, this journey to Malaysia represents a commitment to nurturing global academic relationships and empowering the next generation of learners through collaborative endeavors.

Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS), a technique that helps scientists detect tiny amounts of substances, is used for checking pollutants in our environment and the food we eat. However, using this method can be tricky because sometimes other substances can interfere. To overcome these challenges, scientists are working on better ways to prepare samples and analyse the data with a quick and easy way to find harmful pollutants called PFOSA in human urine, soil, and water using a fish scale-based substrate. This remarkable research titled, “Ag nanoparticle-embedded fish scales as SERS substrates for sensitive detection of forever chemical in real samples” by faculty members from the Department of Chemistry and Department of Biological Sciences, Dr J P Raja Pandiyan and Dr Anil K Suresh, along with their research scholars, Ms Jayasree K and Ms Arunima J, have opened up new avenues, demonstrating a significant advancement in the field of science.

Abstract:

Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) has emerged as one of the most promising analytical tools in recent years due to its advantageous features such as high sensitivity, specificity, ease of operation, and rapid analysis. These attributes make SERS particularly well-suited for environmental and food analysis. However, detecting target analytes in real samples using SERS faces several challenges, including matrix interference, low analyte concentrations, sample preparation complexity, and reproducibility issues. Additionally, the chemical complexity of pollutants and environmental factors can impact SERS measurements. Overcoming these hurdles demands optimised experimental conditions, refined sample preparation methods, and advanced data analysis techniques, often necessitating interdisciplinary collaborations for effective analysis. Therefore, our focus lies in the development of various methods for fabricating SERS substrates, pretreating analytes, and devising sample preparation strategies. These efforts aim to enable the detection of analytes like Perfluorooctane sulfonamide (PFOSA) – a toxic environmental pollutant within complex real samples, including human urine, lake water, and soil samples.

Practical / Social Implications:

SERS Community: Introducing a facile fabrication method for developing filter paper-based substrates, utilizing evaporation-induced self-assembly methods with the aid of 96-well plates. These substrates boast exceptional sensitivity and uniformity, exhibiting a relative standard deviation (RSD) of 8.2%. They offer easy fabrication and serve as effective SERS substrates for various applications.

Industry and Government Bodies: This invention plays a pivotal role in assessing contamination in food and water bodies, serving as a crucial tool in monitoring
environmental contamination through on-site analysis with portable instruments. It ensures adherence to regulatory standards and safeguards public health.

Research: Beyond its practical applications, the invention supports scientific research endeavours focused on identifying microplastic contaminants in real-world samples using portable Raman spectrometers. This not only aids ongoing research but also paves the way for future studies in this critical field.

Collaborations:

1. Dr Hemanth Noothalapati Raman Project Center for
Medical and Biological
Applications, Shimane
University, Matsue 690-8504,
Japan

2. Dr Murali Krishna C. Advanced Centre for
Treatment, Research and
Education in Cancer, Tata
Memorial Centre, Navi
Mumbai 410210, India

3. Dr Soma Venugopal University of Hyderabad, India

Future Research Plans:

Harnessing SERS for the Detection of Emerging Contaminants in Environmental and Food Matrices

 

 

Dr Sriramulu Bojjagani researchDr Sriramulu Bojjagani, Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering and his research scholar, Ms Praneeta Supraneni, have proposed a secure and novel way to safeguard cars from being hacked, data breaches, and unauthorised access. Their research paper titled “Handover-Authentication Scheme for the Internet of Vehicles (IoV) using Blockchain and Hybrid Computing” will now improve transparency and traceability of your cars. Read the interesting abstract to learn more!

Abstract:

The advancements in telecommunications are significantly benefiting the Internet of Vehicles (IoV) in various ways. Minimal latency, faster data transfer, and reduced costs are transforming the landscape of IoV. While these advantages accompany the latest improvements, they also expand cyberspace, leading to security and privacy concerns. Vehicles rely on trusted authorities for registration and authentication processes, resulting in bottleneck issues and communication delays. Moreover, the central trusted authority and intermediate nodes raise doubts regarding transparency, traceability, and anonymity. This paper proposes a novel vehicle authentication handover framework leveraging blockchain, IPFS, and hybrid computing. The framework uses a Proof of Reputation (PoR) consensus mechanism to improve transparency and traceability and the Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) cryptosystem to reduce computational delays. The suggested system assures data availability, secrecy, and integrity while maintaining minimal latency throughout the vehicle re-authentication process. Performance evaluations show the system’s scalability, with creating keys, encoding, decoding, and registration operations done rapidly. Simulation is performed using SUMO to handle vehicle mobility in IoV environment. The findings demonstrate the practicality of the proposed framework in vehicular networks, providing a reliable and trustworthy approach for IoV communication

Practical Implementation / Social Implications:

The practical application of this research can significantly improve the safety and reliability of autonomous vehicles and connected vehicle networks. By securing the handover process, it reduces the risk of hacking, data breaches, and unauthorized access, making connected vehicle systems safer for the public and contributing to the development of smart transportation infrastructures.

Future Research Plans:

Moving forward, we plan to focus on optimizing blockchain solutions for large-scale IoT and smart city applications, with a particular interest in improving consensus mechanisms and security protocols for real-time operations, such as autonomous driving and smart energy grids.

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