Application of blockchain in managing security challenges confronting the adoption of fourth industrial revolution technologies in smart environments: the case of a multi-hazard early warning system

Abstract

Gaining access to data, both personal and public, has become a source of worry in our digital age, as it poses some security and privacy challenges. This raised consciousness is applicable to all digital applications as well as information systems. Intentions of hacking and violations of privacy have been proven to be a major concern, which has led to digital trust issues. Similarly, this notion is true in smart environments, where datasets that have been recorded and collected are used as inputs for monitoring systems and forecasts, which in turn must adhere to several rules due to the sensitive nature of the predictions. Progression in technology over the years has resulted in geometric enhancements in relation to expertise of monitoring devices and downsizing of devices, encouraging the transition from commonly utilised outdated systems to Internet of Things (IoT) smart devices. In an atmosphere where there is an augmentation of cyber security threats, updating legacy systems is also a great concern. These legacy systems have proven to possess characteristics that pose security vulnerabilities, and they are usually incompatible with current security features, and they also lack sufficient encryption methods. As a result of this shift in paradigms to the IoT age, more attention has been given to integrating various devices, guaranteeing technology compatibility and interoperability, and making the devices smaller over tackling security flaws of the endpoint solutions Therefore, even with the adoption and deployment of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technology, security issues still exist. As a case study, a smart environment network of an Early Warning System (EWSs) in a Multi-Hazard Early Warning System (MHEWSs) is not an exception, as it is also susceptible to vulnerabilities; security of data and data pipelines is crucial, and it remains the focus of this study. Its importance is heightened by the integration of 4IR technology and the amalgamation of heterogeneous devices and systems. The objective of this study is to investigate how security issues that afflict smart environments, and consequently, a MHEWSs may be managed and eased by the implementation of Blockchain technology and solutions. This research was carried out with the hypothesis that the implementing Blockchain technology on the MHEWSs will protect the data pipeline. The hypothesis proved to be true as the researcher was able to prove that Blockchain technology can be used to protect the data pipeline of a MHEWS.