A Situation Based Predictive Approach for Cybersecurity Intrusion Detection and Prevention Using Machine Learning and Deep Learning Algorithms in Wireless Sensor Networks of Industry 4.0

Industry 4.0 is fundamentally based on networked systems. Real-time communication between machines, sensors, devices, and people makes it easier to transmit the data needed to make decisions. Informed decision-making is empowered by the comprehensive insights and analytics made possible by this connectedness in conjunction with information transparency. Industry 4.0-based wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are an integral part of modern industrial operations however, these networks face escalating cybersecurity threats. These networks are always vulnerable to cyber-attacks as they continuously collect data and optimize processes. Increased connections make people more susceptible to cyberattacks, necessitating the use of strong cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive data. This study proposes a predictive framework intended to intelligently prioritize and prevent cybersecurity intrusions on WSNs in Industry 4.0. The proposed framework enhances the cybersecurity of WSNs in Industry 4.0 using a multi-criteria approach. It implements machine-learning and deep-learning algorithms for cybersecurity intrusion detection in WSNs of Industry 4.0 and provides prevention by assigning priorities to the threats based on the situation and nature of the attacks. We implemented three models, i.e., Decision Tree, MLP, and Autoencoder, as proposed algorithms in the framework. For multidimensional classification and detection of cybersecurity intrusions, we implemented Decision Tree and MLP models. For binary classification and detection of cybersecurity intrusions in WSNs of Industry 4.0, we implemented Autoencoder model. Simulation results show that the Decision Tree model provides an accuracy of 99.48%, precision of 99.49%, recall of 99.48%, and F1 score of 99.49% in the detection and classification of cybersecurity intrusions. The MLP model provides an accuracy of 99.52%, precision of 99.5%, recall of 99.5%, and F1 score of 99.5% in the detection and classification of cybersecurity intrusions. The implementation of Autoencoder with binary classification yields an accuracy of 91%, a precision of 92%, a recall of 91%, and an F1 score of 91%. The benchmark models, i.e., Random Forest (RF) for multidimensional classification and Logistic Regression (LR) for binary classification, have also been implemented. We compared the performance of the benchmark models with the models implemented in the proposed framework, revealing that the models in the proposed framework significantly outperformed the benchmark models. The framework presents an intelligent prioritizing methodology that is significant for effectively identifying and addressing high-risk intrusions. The proposed framework implements a proactive preventive system that functions as a strong defensive wall by quickly putting counter measures in place to eliminate threats and increase network resilience.