Fractional Fourier transform based image multiplexing and encryption technique for four-color images using input images as keys

A digital technique for multiplexing and encryption of four RGB images has been proposed using the fractional Fourier transform (FRT). The four input RGB images are first converted into their indexed image formats and subsequently multiplexed into a single image through elementary mathematical steps prior to the encryption. The encryption algorithm uses two random phase masks in the input- and the FRT domain, respectively. These random phase masks are especially designed using the input images. As the encryption is carried out through a single channel, the technique is more compact and faster as compared to the multichannel techniques. Different fractional orders, the random masks in input-, and FRT domain are the keys for decryption as well as de-multiplexing. The algorithms to implement the proposed multiplexing-, and encryption scheme are discussed, and results of digital simulation are presented. Simulation results show that the technique is free from cross-talk. The performance of the proposed technique has also been analyzed against occlusion, noise, and attacks using partial windows of the correct random phase keys. The robustness of the technique against known-, and chosen plain-text attacks has also been explained.