BSDCE-IoV: Blockchain-Based Secure Data Collection and Exchange Scheme for IoV in 5G Environment

The Internet of Vehicles (IoV) is a network that connects vehicles and their environment: in-built devices, pedestrians, and infrastructure through the Internet using heterogeneous access technologies. During communication between vehicles, roadside units, and control rooms, data confidentiality and privacy are critical issues that require effective measures. Several works have been proposed for securing IoV environments based on vehicles-to-infrastructure authentication; However, some schemes have security vulnerabilities, while others have shown efficiency issues. Due to its decentralization, stability, and transaction tracking capabilities, Blockchain as an emerging technology presents a potential solution for IoV security. This article provides an in-depth examination of the benefits of blockchain for a 5G-based IoV environment. In particular, we propose and evaluate a novel blockchain-based secure data exchange (BSDCE-IoV) scheme based on Elliptic Curve Cryptography algorithm. Our solution is designed to eliminate several potential attacks that pose a threat to the IoV environment. Deep examination using the Real-or-Random oracle model and Scyther tool, in addition to the informal security analysis, validates the scheme regarding security and privacy. The Multi-precision Integer and Rational Arithmetic Cryptographic Library (MIRACL) assesses the computational and communication overhead. Computational and communicative overheads were also evaluated using the Multi-precision Integer and Rational Arithmetic Cryptographic Library (MIRACL). BSDCE-IoV shows higher performance in terms of security, functionality, and time delay than a number of recent selective work in IoV security.