Quantum-enhanced Chaotic Image Encryption: Strengthening Digital Data Security With 1-D Sine-based Chaotic Maps and Quantum Coding

The proposed work delves into the utilization of chaotic maps along with the quantum mechanisms to strengthen the security of the digital images along with addressing the limitations posed by conventional 1-D chaotic systems characterized by their pseudorandom and periodic attributes. Leveraging the inherent uncertainty in quantum theory, the proposed research introduces a new image encryption scheme. This method is built upon the concepts of two-dimensional quantum coding and the 1-D sine-based chaotic map (1-D SBCM). In the proposed encryption scheme, initially, a random sequence is created using 1-D SBCM by varying the seed parameters. This sequence is subsequently utilized for the purpose of scrambling. After that, a pseudorandom number generator (PRNG) is meticulously devised, drawing inspiration from the concepts of quantum coherence. This PRNG generates a confidential code stream that defies predictability and remains incongruent with the plaintext image, thereby contributing to heightened security levels. Subsequently, the research employs the novel enhanced quantum representation (NEQR) model, capitalizing on its advanced capabilities. Within this framework, the study introduces a quantum right cyclic shift operator, as well as a quantum XOR operator. These operators play a vital role in the formation of highly robust encrypted images. The application of these quantum operators not only enhances the security measures but also increases the complexity of the encryption procedure Statistical evidence derived from comprehensive experimentation corroborates the efficacy of the proposed image encryption scheme. Through rigorous analysis, it becomes evident that the system exhibits a robust performance in terms of strong security. The integration of quantum principles and quantum coding demonstrates that the proposed encryption scheme is resilient against potential threats.