Hybrid Image Encryption Using LWE-Based Post-Quantum Key Encapsulation and Chaos-Based Symmetric Encryption

Abstract

The presented paper introduces a hybrid image-encryption system based on Learning with Errors (LWE)-based post-quantum key encapsulation and chaos-based symmetric encryption in order to secure visual information with reference to the classical and post-quantum threats. LWE is used as a secure means to generate and defend symmetric encryption keys, and chaotic maps as a pseudo-random keystream generator with high throughput and confusion / diffusion. Instead of asserting to provide unconditional quantum security, the framework is said to be tested with reference to explicit adversarial schemes, effective key length under Grover scheme and parametrized lattice hardness and pragmatic cryptography schemes. Experimental evidence on classical and medical images has shown that it can be heavily diffused, high entropy, low ciphertext correlation, and sound decryption, and has been analyzed in terms of runtime and scalability. The findings reveal that the considered design offers a convenient hybrid solution to post-quantum-conscious image encryption.