Title: Detecting and countering battery-depletion attacks in wearable medical devices

Authors: Shakir A. Mehdiyev

Addresses: Institute of Information Technology, Ministry of Science and Education of the Azerbaijan Republic, Baku, Azerbaijan

Abstract: Although large-scale cyberattacks on wearable medical devices (WMDs) are not yet widespread, the growing complexity and connectivity of these systems make them a potential target for battery-draining threats. Devices such as pacemakers, insulin pumps, and neurostimulators are critically dependent on a stable power supply to perform life-sustaining functions. This article explores the possible causes of increased energy consumption, including cyber impacts on sensor, computational, and communication modules. In response to these challenges, the paper proposes an approach that combines adaptive power management with a lightweight intrusion detection system tailored to the specific characteristics of WMDs. The study emphasises the importance of implementing energy-efficient and proactive strategies to enhance the resilience of these devices against emerging cyber-physical threats.

Keywords: wearable medical devices; WMDs; sensors; energy vulnerabilities; battery failures; cyberattacks; energy monitoring.

DOI: 10.1504/IJICS.2026.154456

International Journal of Information and Computer Security, 2026 Vol.30 No.2, pp.205 - 219

Received: 06 May 2025
Accepted: 13 Feb 2026
Published online: 29 Jun 2026 *

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