Chaotic image encryption algorithm based on hybrid multi-objective particle swarm optimization and DNA sequence

•First proposed “Chaotic image encryption algorithm based on hybrid multi-objective particle swarm optimization and DNA sequence”.•Use chaotic initial particle swarm optimization and linear differential descent strategy to avoid getting stuck in a local optimality as much as possible when looking for the best ciphertext image.•During the optimization process, a DNA mask image with a good operation effect on the plaintext image is also dynamically selected.•Small changes to the key can have a big impact on the process of the encryption algorithm.•The information entropy and pixel correlation of the filtered ciphertext image are very close to the ideal value. This paper studies an image encryption algorithm based on multi-objective particle swarm optimization (MOPSO), DNA encoding sequence and one-dimensional Logistic map. First, the key of this paper consists of the sub-key sequence selected by particle swarm optimization (PSO), a hash value of the plaintext image, and a shuffle mark bit. Create random DNA mask images using Logistic map and DNA encoding. Then use it and the block-shuffled plaintext DNA encoding sequence to operate to form an encryption system. In PSO, the position value of a particle represents a position of the plaintext image, the iterative PSO algorithm is based on the information entropy and correlation coefficient. Finally, obtains the best ciphertext, and returns the value of the best particle at this time. Simulation experiment and security analysis show that the correlation coefficient and entropy of ciphertext are excellent, and it can resist all kinds of typical attacks and has better encryption effect.