Systems Engineering and Electronics ›› 2026, Vol. 48 ›› Issue (3): 1072-1082.doi: 10.12305/j.issn.1001-506X.2026.03.31

• Communications and Networks • Previous Articles    

Survey of game theory applications in Internet of Things security and privacy

Zhigang JIN, Zepei LIU(), Xiaodong WU   

  1. School of Electrical and Information Engineering,Tianjin University,Tianjin 300072,China
  • Received:2024-12-02 Online:2026-03-25 Published:2026-04-13
  • Contact: Zhigang JIN E-mail:1022234040@tju.edu.cn

Abstract:

The security and privacy protection of the Internet of Things is a prominent research hotspot and a challenging technical issue. Game theory effectively analyzes the interactions among multiple stakeholders in Internet of Things systems and provides critical theoretical support for decision-making in defense technologies. The applications of game theory in Internet of Things security and privacy protection over the past five years are reviewed, systematically summarizing its application scenarios and technical contributions in security confrontations. Based on different adversarial entities, the related research is categorized into two types: dynamic games between attackers and defenders, and interactive games among different organizations in specific Internet of Things scenarios. The current challenges are explored, such as the rationality of equilibrium assumptions, computational complexity, and practical applicability of algorithms. Finally, future research directions are outlined, focusing on integrating reinforcement learning to develop intelligent game-based security mechanisms.

Key words: Internet of Things security, privacy protection, game theory, Nash equilibrium, reinforcement learning, intelligent security mechanism

CLC Number: 

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