A Multi-Path Approach for k-Anonymity in Mobile Hybrid Networks

The ubiquitous proliferation of mobile devices has given rise to novel user-centric application and services. In current mobile systems, users gain access to remote service providers over mobile network operators. Unfortunately, this assumes that mobile operators are trusted and will not attempt to capitalize on the collected user information and usage trends. To amend this, contrary to previous research, we treat all communication providers as honest but curious. Moreover, we elevate traffic accountability as a primary design requirement. Our approach builds on prior work on network k-anonymity and multi-path communications to provide a system for anonymity in a mobile environment. The resulting architecture protects users' privacy and offers data integrity and accountability. To verify the effectiveness of our approach and measure its overhead, we implemented a prototype of our system using WiFienabled devices. Our preliminary results indicate that the overall impact on the end-...

• Type: Conference
• Year: 2008
• Where: ESORICS
• Authors: Claudio Agostino Ardagna, Angelos Stavrou, Sushil Jajodia, Pierangela Samarati, Rhandi Martin
• Keywords: Current Mobile Systems, ESORICS 2008, Mobile Devices, Mobile Network Operators, Security Privacy