Graph signal processing and tunicate swarm optimization based image steganography using hybrid chaotic map based image scrambling

Abstract This paper put forwards a secure image steganography technique for transmitting sensitive data using a Tunicate swarm optimization algorithm. A hybrid chaotic map-based image scrambling method is proposed with the combination of Tent and Tinkerbell chaotic maps. The scrambling of the secret image provides an added level of security in data hiding. The graph signal processing of cover image using the Meyer wavelet filter is performed to conceal the secret data within the transformed cover image using the alpha blending operation. To discover the optimal value of alpha for alpha blending, the tunicate swarm optimization algorithm is employed. To take the hidden information out at receiver end, the reverse approach is applied. The experimental results revealed that the embedding technique using the tunicate algorithm with a hybrid chaotic map provides better imperceptibility and robustness in comparison to the existing graph signal-based image steganography technique. The investigation is done on PSNR, MSE and SSIM performance parameters for evaluating the proposed technique.