An Image Encryption Algorithm Based on an Epidemic Spreading Model

Abstract

An intrinsic similarity was noted between epidemic spreading models and diffusion operations in cryptography. In this paper, a new image encryption algorithm is proposed based on an epidemic spreading model. The notable feature of the model is the evolution of the network node state. We utilize the evolution of an epidemic spreading model, namely the susceptible-infectious-recovered (SIR) model, to drive the encryption progress by abstracting pixels to the network nodes. In the new cryptosystem, the pixels in plain-text are considered as susceptible individuals, permutation and diffusion are seamlessly integrated rather than having two independent stages, and the encryptions are performed in a two-dimensional and nonlinear manner. Simulation results demonstrate its high encryption speed and excellent encryption security.