FauxCrypt - A Method of Text Obfuscation

TL;DR

FauxCrypt is an open-source text obfuscation algorithm that modifies plaintext to be human-readable but resistant to machine search and indexing, enhancing privacy in cloud-based data storage.

Contribution

It introduces a novel combination of dictionary substitution and letter transposition techniques for effective text obfuscation.

Findings

Words remain understandable despite obfuscation

Obfuscated text resists machine search and indexing

Open source implementation available

Abstract

Warnings have been raised about the steady diminution of privacy. More and more personal information, such as that contained electronic mail, is moving to cloud computing servers where it might be machine-searched and indexed. FauxCrypt is an algorithm for modification of a plaintext document that leaves it generally readable by a person but not readily searched or indexed by machine. The algorithm employs a dictionary substitution of selected words, and an obfuscating transposition of letters in other words. The obfuscation is designed to leave the words understandable, although they are badly spelled. FauxCrypt is free, open source software, with source code available.