Lightweight IoT Malware Detection Solution Using CNN Classification

TL;DR

This paper presents a CNN-based system for detecting malicious IoT devices on networks, addressing security challenges in the rapidly expanding IoT ecosystem, especially in 5G environments.

Contribution

The paper introduces a scalable IoT malware detection method using CNN classification deployed on a central network node, enhancing security without extensive device modifications.

Findings

Effective malware detection with CNNs in IoT networks

System can be generalized across different network setups

Improves security monitoring for IoT devices

Abstract

Internet of Things (IoT) is becoming more frequently used in more applications as the number of connected devices is in a rapid increase. More connected devices result in bigger challenges in terms of scalability, maintainability and most importantly security especially when it comes to 5G networks. The security aspect of IoT devices is an infant field, which is why it is our focus in this paper. Multiple IoT device manufacturers do not consider securing the devices they produce for different reasons like cost reduction or to avoid using energy-harvesting components. Such potentially malicious devices might be exploited by the adversary to do multiple harmful attacks. Therefore, we developed a system that can recognize malicious behavior of a specific IoT node on the network. Through convolutional neural network and monitoring, we were able to provide malware detection for IoT using a central node that can be installed within the network. The achievement shows how such models can be generalized and applied easily to any network while clearing out any stigma regarding deep learning techniques.