Detecting O-RAN Synchronization Attacks via 5G NR Positioning

Marco Mezzavilla, Tommy Azzino, Sundeep Rangan, Prashanth Krishnamurthy, Ramesh Karri, Farshad Khorrami

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

Open Radio Access Network (O-RAN) architecture has ushered in a new era of flexibility and innovation in telecommunications. A challenge in such open architectures is the expanded attack surface via the interfaces and transport network between elements. This paper explores the significance of a particularly critical vulnerability, namely O- RAN synchronization plane responsible for maintaining precise timing and coordination among network elements. Ensuring the integrity and reliability of synchronization is paramount to guaranteeing the seamless operation of 5G and future networks. This paper introduces a framework to detect synchronization attacks by leveraging 5G NR positioning reference signals. The detection accuracy of the algorithm has been validated by testing a classifier that was trained on a realistic raytracing dataset.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publication2024 IEEE International Conference on Communications Workshops, ICC Workshops 2024
EditorsMatthew Valenti, David Reed, Melissa Torres
PublisherInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Inc.
Pages541-547
Number of pages7
ISBN (Electronic)9798350304053
DOIs
StatePublished - 2024
Event59th Annual IEEE International Conference on Communications Workshops, ICC Workshops 2024 - Denver, United States
Duration: Jun 9 2024Jun 13 2024

Publication series

Name2024 IEEE International Conference on Communications Workshops, ICC Workshops 2024

Conference

Conference59th Annual IEEE International Conference on Communications Workshops, ICC Workshops 2024
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityDenver
Period6/9/246/13/24

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Safety, Risk, Reliability and Quality
  • Control and Optimization
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Computer Networks and Communications
  • Computer Science Applications
  • Signal Processing
  • Information Systems and Management
  • Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment

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