Security & Future
Vol. 10 (2026), Issue 1, pg(s) 26-29

INFORMATION SECURITY

Security evaluation metrics for an adaptive steganographic method based on the Canny algorithm

  • 1 V. Levski, National Military University, Shumen, Bulgaria
  • 2 Rakovski National Defence College, Sofia, Bulgaria

Abstract

Steganography aims to conceal confidential information within digital media while minimizing perceptual and statistical distortions. Among image steganographic techniques, adaptive embedding methods have demonstrated superior resistance to steganalysis by exploiting image regions with high local complexity. One effective approach utilizes the Canny edge detection algorithm to identify suitable embedding locations. However, the effectiveness of such methods depends not only on embedding capacity but also on comprehensive security evaluation. This paper presents a systematic framework for assessing the security of an adaptive Canny-based steganographic method. Multiple objective metrics, including Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio (PSNR), Structural Similarity Index Measure (SSIM), Mean Squared Error (MSE), histogram similarity, entropy variation, correlation coefficients, and resistance to statistical steganalysis are analyzed. The proposed evaluation framework demonstrates that edge-based adaptive embedding maintains high visual fidelity while significantly reducing detectability compared with conventional least significant bit (LSB) techniques.

Keywords

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