Abstract
In this paper, a novel data hiding technique is proposed, as an improvement over the Fibonacci LSB data-hiding technique proposed by Battisti et al. [1] and the technique using Prime Number system [2]. First we mathematically model and generalize our approach. Then we propose our novel technique, based on decomposition of a number (pixel-value) as sum of natural numbers. The particular representation generates a different set of (virtual) bit-planes altogether, suitable for embedding purposes. They not only allow one to embed secret message in higher bit- planes but also do it without much distortion and in a reliable and secured manner, guaranteeing efficient retrieval of secret message. Analysis indicates that image quality of the stego-image hidden by the technique using the natural number decomposition technique improves drastically against that using prime and Fibonacci decomposition techniques. Experimental results show that stego-image is visually indistinguishable from cover-image.