NeuroGuard: A Quantum-Secure Blockchain Framework for Privacy-Preserving Brain–Computer Interface Communication

Abstract

Brain–Computer Interfaces (BCIs) represent a transformative paradigm in human–machine interaction, enabling direct communication between neural signals and external devices. They hold immense promise in domains such as medical neuroprosthetics, defense communication, and immersive gaming. However, the neural data they process is highly sensitive, and current BCI frameworks that rely on centralized servers and traditional encryption are vulnerable to data breaches, manipulation, and the emerging threats of quantum decryption. These limitations highlight the urgent need for secure, privacy-preserving, and resilient architectures for BCI communication. To address these challenges, this paper introduces NeuroGuard, a blockchain-based framework enhanced with Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) algorithms—CRYSTALS-Kyber for secure key exchange and Dilithium for digital signatures—combined with Zero-Knowledge Proofs (ZKPs) for lightweight device authentication. Neural data packets are logged in a decentralized ledger, ensuring immutability, transparency, and tamper-proof communication. A prototype system was implemented using an EEG-based BCI headset with edge preprocessing and blockchain-secured communication. Experimental results demonstrate a 31% improvement in attack resistance, 22% reduction in latency, and complete removal of central points of failure compared to traditional BCI security models. The novelty of NeuroGuard lies in integrating PQC, blockchain, ZKPs, and edge intelligence into a unified BCI security architecture, paving the way for future quantum-resilient neural communication systems.