Robust Image Steganography via Color Conversion

Qi Li, Bin Ma, Xianping Fu, Xiao-Yu Wang, Chunpeng Wang, Xiaolong Li

Abstract: In this paper, we propose a robust image steganography method utilizing color conversion, leveraging de-colorization and colorization models to achieve covert transmission of secret information. The motivation is to use color conversion of the stego image to conceal steganographic behavior. For the sender, secret information is embedded into the color cover image using a robust embedding algorithm based on quaternion exponent moments. The stego images are then de-colorized to obtain grayscale images, which can be transmitted over public channels. For the receiver, a corresponding colorization network is designed to reconstruct the stego image and extract the secret information. Additionally, an attack module using Gaussian noise is implemented to enhance the robustness of the proposed steganography. Given a color image, its grayscale version can be chosen from various options, making it difficult for attackers to detect steganographic activity as long as the generated grayscale image appears normal and meaningful. Extensive simulation results demonstrate the feasibility and scalability of the proposed steganography method.