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This work proposes a novel image encryption algorithm that integrates unique image transformation techniques with the principles of chaotic and hyper-chaotic systems. By harnessing the unpredictable behavior of the Chua system and the hyper-chaotic nature of the Chen system, the algorithm carries out rescaling, rotation, and randomization on the target image. The intrinsic unpredictability and sensitivity to initial conditions of these chaotic systems endow the encryption algorithm with an expansive key space of 25208. This feature not only bolsters its resilience against brute-force attacks but also magnifies its overall security profile. The algorithm’s efficiency is evident in its rapid computational speed and lean resource consumption, making it suitable for real-time applications. To gauge its robustness, a battery of rigorous tests and analyses, spanning differential attacks, statistical attacks, and brute-force assaults, were employed. The results validate its ability to resist a diverse spectrum of threats. With its expansive key space, exceptional efficiency, and sturdy defenses, the proposed algorithm emerges as a potential cornerstone for safeguarding digital images in arenas like secure communication, data storage, and multimedia transmission. In sum, this research pushes the boundaries of high-security image encryption methodologies, catering to the burgeoning demands of the digital age.

With the proliferation of digital images over open networks, secure and efficient encryption schemes are imperative for safeguarding image privacy. This paper proposes a novel 5-stage image encryption algorithm adhering to Shannon’s confusion and diffusion paradigm. In the first stage, Langton’s Ant is employed to induce chaos and perturb the pixel distribution of the original image. The second and fourth stages apply Mersenne Twister generated keys to confuse the image via XOR operations. An S-box substitution is utilized in the third stage to disrupt pixel statistical properties. Finally, Arnold’s Cat map further scrambles and diffuses the pixel positions over the image. Extensive security analyses reveal the algorithm’s robustness against various attacks such as visual, entropy, brute-force, statistical and differential attacks. Additionally, it successfully passes the NIST SP 800–22 test suite. Performance results demonstrate the proposed algorithm’s efficacy for real-time secure image transmission with low computational overheads. The algorithm’s security level combined with high-speed performance makes it well-suited for practical image encryption applications.