Photon-Counting Double-Random-Phase Image Authentication in the Fresnel Domain

In this paper, we propose a method for image authentication using photon counting and double random phase encryption technique in the Fresnel domain. Recently, it was reported that a better avalanche effect can be achieved for double random phase encoding (DRPE) in the Fresnel domain than that in the Fourier domain in bit units. Moreover, it was verified that photon counting technique can enhance the security of DRPE algorithm. Therefore, DRPE in the Fresnel domain combining with photon counting scheme is much safer for image authentication. In this study, an image is first encrypted by DRPE in the Fresnel domain. Then, a photon-limited encrypted image is produced by using photon counting method. Finally, the decrypted image which can not be easily visualized and recognized under a limited number of photon is authenticated with a statistical nonlinear correlation algorithm. Experimental results verify the feasibility of the proposed method.