# An improved Dijkstra cross-plane image encryption algorithm based on a chaotic system

## TL;DR

This paper introduces a new image encryption method that improves efficiency and security by considering the relationship between color planes in images.

## Contribution

A novel 1D chaotic system and an enhanced Dijkstra-based cross-plane scrambling algorithm for secure image encryption.

## Key findings

- The proposed chaotic system exhibits strong chaotic randomness and improved performance.
- The encryption method effectively prevents image loss and resists common ciphertext attacks.
- The algorithm works well for both standard RGB and medical images.

## Abstract

While encrypting information with color images, most encryption schemes treat color images as three different grayscale planes and encrypt each plane individually. These algorithms produce more duplicated operations and are less efficient because they do not properly account for the link between the various planes of color images. In addressing the issue, we propose a scheme that thoroughly takes into account the relationship between pixels across different planes in color images. First, we introduce a new 1D chaotic system. The performance analysis shows the system has good chaotic randomness. Next, we employ a shortest-path cross-plane scrambling algorithm that utilizes an enhanced Dijkstra algorithm. This algorithm effectively shuffles pixels randomly within each channel of a color image. To accomplish cross-plane diffusion, our approach is then integrated into the adaptive diffusion algorithm. The security analysis and simulation results demonstrate that the approach can tackle the issue of picture loss in telemedicine by encrypting color images without any loss of quality. Furthermore, the images we utilize are suitable for both standard RGB and medical images. They incorporate more secure and highly sensitive keys, robustly withstanding various typical ciphertext analysis attacks. This ensures a reliable solution for encrypting original images.