Enabling Users to Self-manage Networks: Collaborative Anomaly Detection in Wireless Personal Area Networks

Personal area networks such as home or small office LANs are usually more vulnerable to cyber-attacks than those with dedicated support staff and the ability to invest consistently in security defenses. In this paper we propose leveraging physical characteristics of these personal area networks in order to enable non-technical individuals to secure their networks or at least be aware that their devices have been compromised. Our proposal leverages records of location for mobile devices, proximity authentication, and individual homophily. In this work, we summarize previous studies on securing personal networks, proximity authentication, and software attestation. We then present a preliminary design for the detection of and recovery from infection for personal area networks. Limitations and future work are also discussed.