A multipurpose image watermarking scheme for digital image protection

Abstract

A multipurpose digital image watermarking scheme is proposed based on the multiple LSB bit substitution method. Fragile and robust watermarks are embedded into the host image for tamper and ownership detection respectively. Randomized insertion is used to insert a fragile watermark pattern to get better tamper detection. Secret keys are used in this scheme to secure data from forged/unauthorized access, which must be known to the end user to extract the watermark from the host. Tampering is done at random locations to cover most of the watermarked image’s area during testing of proposed scheme. Due to blind nature and randomized watermark insertion, high security is obtained. Experimental outcomes represent that the proposed method is able to achieve significant tamper detection. Proposed scheme exhibits robust nature towards common signal processing attacks and provides distortion-less robust watermark in case of no attack. This method also exhibits less execution time due to its time domain insertion methodology. A comparative analysis with the existing schemes shows that the proposed scheme has many features simultaneously such as blind extraction, high embedding capacity, low execution time, significant robustness, acceptable imperceptibility, and multipurpose nature. The proposed scheme can be utilized in fields where rapid response, ownership protection, and tamper detection are prime concerns.