Protection of Digital Elevation Model—One Approach

Abstract

The quality of DEMs is especially being considered based on the spatial resolution of the created digital models and the type of terrain of the interest area. DEM analysis was performed specifically for LiDAR-based DEMs, as well as a comparison with results obtained using the radar recording method (Shuttle Radar Topography Mission). The application of DEM data for security-sensitive systems requires the fulfillment of security requirements, such as authenticity, integrity, confidentiality, and non-repudiation. For this purpose, the authors have developed a model for non-repudiation and protecting DEM data. The model simulation shows it is possible to detect even the smallest changes made in the transmission or the DEM location, as well as proving the data authenticity and non-repudiation of the sender. DEM data security testing has shown that DEM data is effectively protected from the source of origin to the end entity location.