A Survey on Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain Applications in Cybersecurity for Smart Cities

Abstract

Smart cities rapidly evolve into transformative ecosystems where advanced technologies work together to improve urban living. These interconnected environments use emerging technologies to offer efficient services and sustainable solutions for urban challenges. As these systems become more complex, their vulnerability to cybersecurity threats also increases. Integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and Blockchain technologies to address these challenges presents promising solutions that ensure secure and resilient infrastructures. This study provides a comprehensive survey of integrating AI, Blockchain, cybersecurity, and smart city technologies based on an analysis of peer-reviewed journals, conference proceedings, book chapters, and websites. Seven independent researchers reviewed relevant literature published between January 2021 and December 2024 using ACM Digital Library, Wiley Online Library, Taylor & Francis, Springer, ScienceDirect, MDPI, IEEE Xplore Digital Library, IGI Global, and Google Scholar. The study explores how AI can enhance threat detection, anomaly detection, and predictive analytics, enabling real-time responses to cyber threats. It examines various AI methodologies, including machine learning and deep learning, to identify vulnerabilities and prevent attacks. It discusses the role of Blockchain in securing data integrity, improving transparency, and providing decentralized control over sensitive information. Blockchain’s tamper-proof ledger and smart contract capabilities offer innovative solutions for identity management, secure transactions, and data sharing among smart city stakeholders. The study also highlights how combining AI and Blockchain can create robust cybersecurity frameworks, enhancing resilience against emerging threats. The survey concludes by outlining future research directions and offering recommendations for policymakers, urban planners, and cybersecurity professionals. This study identifies emerging trends and applications for enhancing the security and resilience of smart cities through innovative technological solutions. The survey provides valuable insights for researchers and practitioners who aim to utilize AI and Blockchain to improve smart city cybersecurity.