International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET)
e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 12 Issue: 08 | Aug 2025
p-ISSN: 2395-0072
www.irjet.net
Multi-Algorithm Encryption Framework Using Classical and Modern Cryptographic Techniques with image Steganography L.Yamini Swathi1 , Tangula Kaveri2 1 Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science and System Engineering, Andhra University College of
Engineering, Andhra Pradesh, India
2 Student, Department of Computer Science and System Engineering, Andhra University College of Engineering,
Andhra Pradesh, India ---------------------------------------------------------------------***---------------------------------------------------------------------
system's security should only depend on the key's confidentiality—not the algorithm's. However, this assumes that the cryptographic algorithm is robust enough to resist all known threats. In reality, even reliable algorithms can have hidden weaknesses that show up only after thorough examination or with new analytical advancements. The Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), which is currently viewed as secure, has some theoretical weaknesses in specific attack scenarios. Furthermore, current cryptographic techniques may be at risk from the development of quantum computing.
Abstract This paper presents a new multi-layered encryption framework system that merges classical cryptographic algorithms with modern encryption methods and image steganography to improve data security. The proposed system has a seven-layer encryption process. Least Significant Bit (LSB) steganography, the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), deterministic scrambling, matrix multiplication, matrix transposition, and the Caesar cipher with rotating keys are included. This framework overcomes the weaknesses of single-algorithm methods by creating multiple security barriers, which makes cryptanalysis much harder. The system works with 95 printable ASCII characters and processes text in chunks to enhance both security and performance. Experimental results show that the framework effectively secures textual data while keeping computational complexity reasonable. The system ensures complete data recovery with no loss and allows plausible deniability through image concealment. With an average entropy of 7.8 bits per byte, security analysis shows resistance to frequency analysis, known plaintext attacks, and statistical detection.
The idea of defense-in-depth, taken from military strategy, suggests that multiple independent layers of security offer better protection than relying on a single, potentially faulty barrier. In cryptography, this means strategically combining several encryption algorithms, each adding unique security features to the system. Classical ciphers, even though they are vulnerable to modern analysis techniques, can add valuable confusion and diffusion when effectively integrated into a layered approach. Their simple maths, often seen as a weakness, can actually be a strength when paired with more complex modern algorithms, as it introduces variety that complicates automated analysis.
Key Words: Multi-layered Cryptography, Hill Cipher, Classical Ciphers, AES Encryption, Image Steganography, Defense-in-Depth, Information Security, LSB embedding, Information hiding.
Another security measure that improves cryptographic techniques is steganography, which is the process of hiding data inside data. Unlike cryptography, which makes data unreadable but does not hide its existence, steganography hides the very presence of secret communication. This two-part approach—making data unreadable through encryption and invisible through steganographic techniques—offers what security experts call "plausible deniability." An attacker intercepting a steganographic medium cannot definitely prove hidden content exists without extensive analysis. Even then, the encrypted nature of the concealed data creates another barrier.
1.INTRODUCTION The fast growth of digital communication tools and the surge in data transmission have led to significant challenges for information security. Traditional cryptographic methods are mathematically sound, but they often depend on a single algorithm. This reliance creates potential weak points that skilled attackers can exploit. The increasing power of computers available to these attackers, combined with improvements in analysis techniques, requires stronger security systems that can handle complex, coordinated attacks.
Combining classical cryptographic methods with modern algorithms present both opportunities and challenges. Classical ciphers like the Caesar cipher and Hill cipher have well-known mathematical properties and are computationally efficient, but they are vulnerable when used alone. Modern symmetric encryption algorithms
The foundation of modern cryptography is Kerckhoffs's principle. According to this theory, a cryptographic
© 2024, IRJET
|
Impact Factor value: 8.226
|
ISO 9001:2008 Certified Journal
|
Page 490