Image Steganography Using Pixel-Value Differencing

Image Steganography Using Pixel-Value Differencing is a technique for hiding information within digital images. This method embeds secret data by making minimal alterations to pixel value differences between adjacent pixels, allowing covert transmission of information. In practical implementation, the algorithm typically involves scanning pixels in a predefined pattern (such as raster scan or Hilbert curve), calculating differences between neighboring pixels, and modifying these differences to encode binary data while maintaining visual imperceptibility. The technique finds extensive applications in information security for protecting sensitive data during transmission and storage. It can conceal various data types including text, audio, and video files. Key functions in the implementation include pixel difference calculation, embedding capacity optimization, and error diffusion mechanisms to minimize visual artifacts. By utilizing pixel-value differencing steganography, users can transmit and store confidential information without raising suspicion, with typical code implementations involving histogram preservation and adaptive embedding thresholds to maintain statistical undetectability.