Quantum Image Reversible Watermarking Scheme using a Combination of the most Significant Qubit and the Least Significant Qubit
Gaofeng Luo, Ling Shi, Tongcheng Huang +1 more
Quantum image watermarking technology is influenced by embedding algorithm, which permanently distorts the embedded quantum carrier image.To protect and authenticate quantum images without damaging the carrier images, this study proposed a quantum image reversible watermarking algorithm combining the most significant qubit (MSQb) and the least significant qubit (LSQb).First, a binary watermark image, a grayscale carrier image, and an empty key image were represented using the novel enhanced quantum representation of digital images.Second, the encrypted qubit of the binary watermark image was matched with the MSQb of the carrier image.If they were equal, then the high qubit of the quantum key image was flipped.Otherwise, the encrypted qubit of the binary watermark image was matched with the XOR value of the lowest two qubits of the carrier image.The LSQb of the carrier image was modified according to the matching result.Finally, the quantum watermarked image was obtained.Simulation experiments and theoretical analysis verified the feasibility and watermark performance of the scheme.Results demonstrate that the scheme achieves correct extraction of quantum image watermark and lossless restoration of original image.The visual quality PSNR of the carrier image embedded with watermark through the scheme is improved by approximately 4% compared with that through the traditional LSQb method.The study provides a reference for studying and implementing reversible image watermarking technology in the era of quantum computer, which can be applied to harsh copyright protection and authentication of the visual quality of the original carrier image.
Journal of Engineering Science and Technology Review•Jan 1, 2020•1 citation