Color image encryption algorithm based on Mackey–Glass time-delay chaotic system and quantum random walk

Abstract

Abstract To ensure the confidentiality and integrity of image data and prevent unauthorized data tampering and privacy leaks. This study proposes a new color image encryption scheme based on the Mackey–Glass time-delay chaotic system and quantum random walk. This approach fully leverages the unpredictability of quantum random walks to generate random values. It combines the differences in Hamming distance between the three RGB channels of color images to create a highly complex and random key. The overall image and the three independent RGB channels are arranged in ascending order using Logistic-tent chaotic mapping and the Mackey–Glass time-delay chaotic system to obfuscate the image data. The deformed fractional-order Lorenz chaotic system is introduced, integrated with DNA encoding and decoding technology, and XOR operations are performed to achieve encryption at the spatial and pixel levels, thereby increasing the complexity of decryption. Through extensive experimental research, this solution has demonstrated excellent results in tests such as adjacent pixel correlation, information entropy, and key sensitivity. It has an excellent ability to protect the privacy of images and provides a reliable guarantee for the security of image data.