Advanced Steganographic Algorithm Using Payload Adaptation and Graceful Degradation

In this paper, the authors introduce a novel approach in payload adaptation based steganographic algorithms based on the original Smart LSB design. In their prior research, the initial design was proven to be more effective in the early stages of solution generation and less effective after an average of 30 generated strategies, as the solutions became redundant and with repetitive results, rendering the evaluation stage useless. Also, based on the payload data size, the algorithm was limited to use a fixed and initially determined capacity, therefore embedding the same payload using different number of pixel LSBs, which issued completely new and unrelated results. The new and enhanced algorithm uses a more efficient mapping technique for the secret data that also controls the capacity of the cover image. As outlined in the experimental results, the current design successfully enhances all aspects of the initial design varying from processing speed, solution quality, variable capacity, and increased security.