Multi-Image Cross-Channel Encryption Using Chaotic Maps and DNA Encoding

Abstract

Multi-image encryption techniques are an efficient way to protect digital images by encrypting several images together. This paper introduces a robust and secure encryption method for color images using chaotic maps and DNA encoding. The process begins by combining multiple images into a single canvas, then scrambling their layout with block-shuffling based on the Fisher-Yates algorithm. The resulting image is converted to the YCoCg color space. Encryption utilizes a 3D chaotic logistic map to generate a sequence that scrambles pixel values via XOR. Security is further reinforced with DNA encoding and cross-channel shuffling. A second round of diffusion, using the Lorenz chaotic map and DNA encoding, boosts security. Finally, the encrypted image is reverted to the RGB format. Tests confirm strong encryption, high entropy, low pixel correlation, and resistance to attacks, making this method secure and efficient for batch image encryption.