Steganographic method for color images using variance field estimation and scaling factor for energy conservation

Steganography involves the secret data communications in an appropriate multimedia carrier (i.e. audio, image, and video files), under the assumption that if the secret data is visible, the point of attack is evident [1, 3]; thus, the goal here is to conceal the existence of the embedded data. In the case of image files, a steganographic method employs innocent-looking media called host or cover image to imperceptibly carry hidden data to an intended recipient [1-3]. The image embedded with the hidden data (i.e., secret data, copyright notice, and serial number) is called the stego-image and it looks as a normal image. The steganalysis techniques detect the existence of secret data in digital media, and these techniques are designed to distinguish between the cover and stego-images [4, 5].