A fast image encryption scheme with a novel pixel swapping-based confusion approach

In traditional permutation-diffusion type image cipher, the confusion and diffusion are two independent procedures. In general, several overall rounds are required to achieve a satisfactory security level, which downgrades its advantage in online image protection. In this paper, a novel plain pixel-related swapping confusion approach that can contribute considerable diffusion effect in the permutation procedure is proposed. By employing the self-related non-linear pixel swapping confusion approach, a tiny difference between two plain images can bring about completely different confused images. Therefore, the spreading process of the cryptosystem is significantly accelerated, and the workload of the time-consuming diffusion part will be reduced. Moreover, an improved image encryption architecture is proposed in conjunction with the pixel swapping-based confusion approach. Compared with the typical permutation-diffusion structure, the new architecture well addresses the weakness of confusion key sensitivity in the first encryption round. Simulation results and numerical analyses justify the higher efficiency and sufficient strength of the proposed image encryption scheme.