Abstract

Image ciphering is commonly used to transform digital images into an unintelligible form to prevent unauthorized access during transmission over open networks. However, traditional cryptographic systems, which typically rely on fixed or limited key sizes, are unsuitable for time-critical applications because images contain high redundancy and large volumes of data. This paper presents an image encryption algorithm that integrates elliptic curve cryptography (ECC), chaotic maps, and large dynamic substitution boxes (S-boxes). The proposed scheme addresses key challenges in image security, particularly the limited key space and execution-time inefficiencies associated with conventional approaches. The integration of a pseudo-random number generator (PRNG) derived from elliptic curve (EC) with chaotic maps enables the generation of novel S-boxes, resulting in enhanced performance and improved robustness against various cryptographic attacks. Experimental results demonstrate significant improvements in security metrics, including entropy, number of pixels change rate (NPCR), and unified average changing intensity (UACI).

Keywords

Image encryption, Elliptic curve cryptography (ECC), Chaotic maps, Dynamic S-box generation, Pseudo-random number generator (PRNG).

Cite this article

El Bourakkadi H, Tabti H, Chemlal A, Abid A, Jarjar A, Benazzi A. Color image encryption using elliptic curve cryptography and large dynamic S-boxes. International Journal of Advanced Technology and Engineering Exploration. 2026;13(135):209-224. DOI : 10.19101/IJATEE.2025.121220770

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