Dynamic Scattering-Channel-Based Approach for Multiuser Image Encryption

Abstract

Conventional scattering-based encryption systems that operate based on a static complex medium which is used by all users are vulnerable to learning-based attacks that exploit ciphertext-plaintext pairs to model and reverse-engineer the scattering medium's response, enabling unauthorized decryption without the physical medium. In this contribution, a new dynamic scattering-channel-based technique for multiuser image encryption is developed. The established approach employs variable, dynamic scattering media which are modeled as tunable aggregates of multiple scattering nanoparticles. The proposed system supports multiple users by allowing distinct combinations of scattering matrices for different time blocks, each combined with user-specific complex-valued coefficients, enabling the creation of unique, hard-to-guess encryption keys for each user. The derived methodology enhances the practical feasibility of multiuser secure communication and storage channels employing scattering media as the encryption mechanism.