Improved PHY-Layer Authentication Utilizing Radiation Pattern Feature for 6G-IoT Systems

In the sixth generation and Internet of Things (6G-IoT) systems, impersonation attacks pose significant risks due to the high interconnectivity, and complexity of devices. This study develops a new, improved physical-layer (PHY-layer) authentication method to counter impersonation attacks in a 6G-IoT system by leveraging radiation pattern feature in gain, phase, and position errors. We analyze the statistical behavior of radiation pattern with random errors in gain, phase, and position, and establish statistical models based on this analysis. Subsequently, we devise an authentication scheme that utilizes these statistical models to validate the legitimacy of the Internet of Things device. Finally, a performance assessment has been carried out to validate the dependability and efficacy of the authentication scheme across diverse settings.