Enhanced Reversible Data Hiding for Encrypted Image Based on Block Mean Difference Histogram Shifting and BPHST

Jigisha Mehra; Amit Jha; Kamini Maheshwar

Jigisha Mehra University Institute of Technology, Barkatullah University, Bhopal (M.P.), India
Amit Jha University Institute of Technology, Barkatullah University, Bhopal (M.P.), India
Kamini Maheshwar University Institute of Technology, Barkatullah University, Bhopal (M.P.), India

Keywords: Reversible Data Hiding (RDH), Encrypted Image, Histogram Shifting, Block Mean Difference, Bit Pattern Shifting Technique (BPHST), Image Recovery

Abstract

This paper proposes an improved reversible data hiding method for encrypted images, utilizing Block Prediction Histogram Shifting Technique (BPHST). Reversible data hiding (RDH) ensures both secure data embedding and complete recovery of the original image post-extraction. Our proposed BPHST approach is based on bit-level shifting and histogram manipulation of block mean differences within encrypted image segments. The method extracts the mean difference from encrypted blocks and constructs a histogram using additive homomorphic properties, allowing precise data embedding via histogram shifting. This technique ensures that data extraction is separable from image decryption by preserving the difference prediction before and after encryption. Compared to previous methods relying on sorting, prediction, and histogram adjustment, BPHST achieves better error rate management, enhanced robustness, and secure data embedding. The proposed method effectively balances high data security, imperceptibility, and reversibility, making it suitable for sensitive multimedia applications. Furthermore, BPHST demonstrates improved Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio (PSNR) and lower Mean Squared Error (MSE), ensuring high fidelity in image recovery. This makes BPHST a promising technique for secure, reversible information hiding in encrypted images.

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References

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