A PSO based Information Hiding Approach using Pixel Mapping and Wavelet Transformation

Abstract

In this paper a new data hiding approach has been proposed combining Pixel value difference (PVD), Particle swarm optimization (PSO) and pixel mapping. The aim of this paper is to map the secret information within most suitable block of pixels to ensure minimum change. Each pixel groups are different in nature and may not map with any group of secret data. Appropriate mapping of pixels is conducted by verifying some parameters. Collective forms of those parameters create the fitness function. The fitness function of particles is chosen such a way that a balanced ratio between capacity and Signal to Noise Ratio(SNR)is to be maintained. To elevate security level of encryption, overlooking the spatial domain embedding Haar discrete wavelet transformation (DWT) has been used. Embedded images are compared and analysed against existing approaches in term of hiding capacity and induced noise.