Abstract
Based on the fractional discrete cosine transform with multiple generating sequences (MGSFrDCT) and the dependent scrambling and diffusion (DSD), an image encryption algorithm is proposed, in which the multiple-generating sequences greatly enlarge the key space of the encryption system. The real-valued output of MGSFrDCT is beneficial to storage, display and transmission of the cipher-text. During the stage of confusion and diffusion, the locations and values of all MGSFrDCT transformed coefficients change due to DSD, and the initial values and fractional orders of encryption system depend not only on the cipher keys but also on the plain-image due to introduction of a disturbance factor, which allows the encryption system to resist the known-plaintext and chosen-plaintext attacks. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed encryption algorithm is feasible, effective and secure and able to resist common classical attacks.