Color image encryption and decryption for twin images in fractional Fourier domain

We propose a method for the encryption of twin color images using fractional Fourier transform (FRT). The color images to be encrypted are converted into the indexed image formats before being processed through twin image encryption algorithm based on the FRT. The proposed algorithm uses one random code in the image domain and one random phase code in the FRT domain to perform double image encryption. The conversion of both the input RGB images into their indexed formats facilitates single-channel processing for each image, and is more compact and robust as compared to multichannel techniques. Different fractional orders, the random masks in image- and FRT domain are the keys to enhance the security of the proposed system. The algorithms to implement the proposed encryption and decryption schemes are discussed, and results of digital simulation are presented. We examine sensitivity of the proposed scheme against the use of unauthorized keys (e.g. incorrect fractional orders, incorrect random phase mask etc.). Robustness of the method against occlusion and noise has also been discussed. (C) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.