Symmetric multiple-image encryption algorithm using Chen's Hyper-Chaotic System

Abstract In the era of big data, vast amounts of digital images are transmitted over the Internet. To safeguard the confidentiality of these images, this paper proposes a multiple image encryption algorithm (MIEA) based on 3D non-equilateral Arnold transformation (3D-NEAT) and a chaotic system, capable of encrypting any number of images simultaneously. First, the K plaintext images are superimposed to form a plaintext cube image. Next, 3D-NEAT is applied to scramble the 3D cube plaintext image at the bit level. Finally, chaotic sequences generated by Chen’s hyper-chaotic system (CHCS) are used to further confuse and diffuse the scrambled 3D cube image, resulting in a 3D cube encrypted image. Experimental simulations and security analyses demonstrate that the 3D ciphertext image produced by the proposed algorithm can withstand various security and statistical analyses and shows strong robustness against occlusion and noise attacks. These results indicate that the algorithm is both secure and efficient, making it suitable for practical applications. Mathematics Subject Classi cation (2020) MSC code1 · MSC code2 · more