Decentralized Authentication and Data Security Scheme for IoMT Devices and Patients Using Blockchain, PUF and IPFS

Abstract

The Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) is a rapidly evolving field and requires strong authentication and data security measures to protect patient privacy and preserve the integrity of medical data. This research focuses on Interplanetary File Systems (IPFS), blockchain, and Physical Unclonable Functions (PUFs) to propose a decentralized authentication and data security scheme for IoMT devices and patients. Blockchain technology and PUF are combined in the IoMT device authentication process to provide high trust and integrity in device identity. Similarly, patient authentication utilizes the transparent and immutable properties of the blockchain. A secure and auditable framework for patient identity verification and to further improve data access, availability, and flexibility while mitigating the risks associated with centralized storage systems, the project incorporates IPFS as a decentralized storage option for patient data. Through the use of IPFS gateways, patient data is securely dispersed among a network of nodes, reducing the possibility of denied access and single points of failure. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2025.