An efficient reversible data hiding with reduplicated exploiting modification direction using image interpolation and edge detection

Abstract

Data hiding is a technique that embeds a cluster of secret messages into the original image. The image with secret messages can be distributed on the Internet while the message embedded would not be easily discovered by a third party. In this way, the secret message can be well protected. At the same time, an image might be made with complex and smooth textures. If changes are made on complex textures, it is less easy for human eyes to discern the differences in the image; but if changes are made on smooth textures, the changes are easier to be discerned by human eyes. This paper proposes a data hiding method based on reduplicated exploiting modification direction (REMD), image interpolation, and canny edge detection. It aims at fulfilling two goals. First, conduct difference-embedding on the image’s feature information, distribute the image, and use image interpolation to accomplish reversibility. Second, check the pixels that are located at the edge and insert different data payload according to the application demands. This allows users to flexibly adjust data payload embedded into the image’s edge pixels according to their practical conditions, effectively considering both the image quality and payload. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method can achieve the data payload of 3.01bpp, so this is a reversible hiding technique with a very high embedding capacity. In the mean time, the average image quality is kept at an acceptable level, about 33 ± 1 dB.