Integrating Fuzzy Analytical Network Process for the risk assessment of heterogeneous IoMT devices: a comprehensive approach

The prevalence of Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) devices has prompted rigorous risk assessment methodologies to ensure security and reliability. This study integrates the Fuzzy Analytical Network Process (FANP) to evaluate the risks associated with heterogeneous IoMT devices, providing a comparative analysis with our previous research utilizing the Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process (FAHP). Through the FANP method, we address the complexity and interdependencies of risk factors more effectively, offering a comprehensive perspective on IoMT device vulnerabilities which is lacking in FAHP method and crucial for IoMT devices. The methodology involves the identification of key risk criteria such as data security, device reliability, establishment of pairwise comparisons, calculation of supermatrix and limit matrix, and the analysis of fuzzy judgments to determine a comprehensive risk assessment for the three IoMT devices: Oximeter, Smartwatch and Smart Peak Flow Meter. Our findings highlight significant differences in risk prioritization between the FANP and FAHP methods, emphasizing the importance of methodological selection in risk assessment processes. This comparison provides end users with two robust methodologies for assessing IoMT device risks, enhancing their ability to make informed decisions about device deployment and management. The study concludes that while both approaches are valuable, FANP method provides a more holistic view of risk interrelations, which can be critical in the dynamic and interconnected landscape of IoMT devices. Beyond technical evaluation, this practical relevance extends to end users (guiding secure adoption practices), manufacturers (informing design improvements), and policymakers (supporting standards and regulations that account for interdependent risks). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study which includes FANP method for IoMT devices Oximeter, Smart Watch and Smart Peak Flow Meter