Multi-image encryption scheme using cross-plane coupling permutation and plain-by-plain wave diffusion

Abstract Images contain a wealth of visual information, are susceptible to unauthorized access due to their vulnerability and sensitivity. This paper designs a novel multi-image encryption scheme for protecting the privacy of images of different sizes and types. Initially, a 2D memristive hyperchaotic map (2D-MHM) is designed and subjected to various dynamic analyses and randomness evaluations. The results demonstrate that the proposed map possesses an exceptionally large parameter space, high Lyapunov exponent and sample entropy, and has successfully passed the entire suite of NIST test, verifying its feasibility for confidential communication. Then we present a multi-image encryption scheme combining cross-plane coupling permutation and plain-by-plain wave diffusion to realize random exchange and global variation of pixels in different planes. The performance evaluation and numerical analysis demonstrate that the scheme is resilient against multifarious types of attacks, possesses great security while effectively enhancing encryption efficiency. Finally, the proposed scheme is compared with advanced algorithms and its application in healthcare is discussed, exhibiting its superiority in multiple aspects.