A hybrid NEQR image encryption cryptosystem using two-dimensional quantum walks and quantum coding

Quantum mechanisms can provide strong security in image processing against the disadvantages of pseudorandom and periodic of traditional chaotic systems. Based on its uncertainty and measurement collapse principle, this study proposes an image encryption system based on two-dimensional quantum walks and quantum coding. First, a pseudorandom number generator (PRNG) based on quantum entanglement and coherence principles is designed to generate a secret code stream inconsistent with the original image. Second, using the new enhanced quantum representation (NEQR) model, a quantum right cyclic shift operator and a quantum XOR operator are designed to obtain the final encrypted image. Experimental results and analysis show that the image encryption scheme has high security performance.