Hybrid lightweight encryption and searchable security framework for secure VANET image and text data sharing

Abstract

The increasing reliance on vehicular ad hoc networks (VANETs) for instantaneous traffic orchestration and data exchange highlights the need for robust, efficient, and privacy preserving security solutions. Classical encryption methods often fail to meet the low-latency and lightweight requirements of vehicular environments. In this study, a hybrid cryptographic framework was designed that integrates searchable encryption (SE) with the Spritz stream cipher, targeting secure keyword-based access to encrypted data. By leveraging bilinear pairing for identity-based key management, the system enables flexible authentication and secure updates. Both text and image data are supported, with minimal computational overhead. Experimental results validate the feasibility of the approach in dynamic, resource-limited vehicular networks.