An advanced cryptographic scheme for DICOM medical image encryption using a novel spatiotemporal chaotic lattice

Abstract

Ensuring the privacy and security of medical imaging data is crucial. Most existing methods focus on encrypting images in common formats, neglecting the unique challenges posed by medical formats. In this paper an advanced encryption algorithm based on a multi-dimensional and multi-parametric spatiotemporal coupled chaotic lattice (Double-MsCcL) system is proposed. The Double-MsCcL system enhances the complexity of chaotic sequences, and provides a robust foundation for medical image encryption. The encryption method proposed combines double-layer random DNA diffusion and fractal random permutation. Medical information is embedded in the image pixels, serving as the cryptosystem key. The designed double-layer DNA random diffusion algorithm alters pixel values, while the fractal random permutation algorithm disrupts pixel positions. This proposed approach effectively hides sensitive information, strengthens resistance to plaintext attacks, and address the often-overlooked Uint16 format of DICOM images. Comprehensive performance evaluations have shown that the proposed encryption scheme offers significant advantages in protecting sensitive medical imaging data. Our algorithm exhibits better performance in resisting plaintext analysis, statistical, and differential attacks, demonstrating significant security compared to existing state-of-the-art methods, which can be widely applied in the field of modern medical data protection.