  As sixth-generation (6G) wireless communication networks evolve, privacy
concerns are expected due to the transmission of vast amounts of
security-sensitive private information. In this context, a reconfigurable
intelligent surface (RIS) emerges as a promising technology capable of
enhancing transmission efficiency and strengthening information security. This
study demonstrates how RISs can play a crucial role in making 6G networks more
secure against eavesdropping attacks. We discuss the fundamentals, and
standardization aspects of RISs, along with an in-depth analysis of
physical-layer security (PLS). Our discussion centers on PLS design using RIS,
highlighting aspects like beamforming, resource allocation, artificial noise,
and cooperative communications. We also identify the research issues, propose
potential solutions, and explore future perspectives. Finally, numerical
results are provided to support our discussions and demonstrate the enhanced
security enabled by RIS.
