A Prospective Examination of Security Vulnerabilities in Link-Traversal-Based Query Processing

Abstract

The increasing social and economic influence of Big Data platforms has intensified the demand for decentralized alternatives. However, retrieving and querying information in decentralized environments requires fundamentally different techniques whose characteristics and limitations are not yet fully understood. Link-Traversal-based Query Processing (LTQP) is an emerging query paradigm that enables querying across decentralized data networks by allowing client-side engines to discover information through the traversal of links between distributed documents. Since decentralized systems operate without centralized control, they are inherently exposed to various security risks. Consequently, LTQP engines must be resilient against threats targeting the host system, the query execution process, and the personal data of users. This study presents a comprehensive analysis of potential security vulnerabilities associated with LTQP. Drawing inspiration from security concerns identified in related domains, ten major security threats relevant to LTQP are identified and examined. Each vulnerability is discussed alongside practical examples and possible mitigation approaches. Furthermore, this work provides recommendations for LTQP engine developers and data publishers aimed at reducing exposure to these risks. Through this contribution, the study addresses several uncertainties surrounding secure querying in decentralized ecosystems. Beyond security, additional research remains necessary to identify the foundational components required for truly decentralized data processing environments.