Hiding Data in JPEG Using in-DQT Technique

Steganography techniques are useful to convey hidden information using various types of typically-transmitted multimedia data as cover file to conceal communication. When using JPEG as a cover file, normally message is hidden in the AC values of quantized DCT coefficients. However, concealment of message in quantization table is yet to be done. In this paper, a novel in-DQT technique for message hiding in JPEG’s quantization table using bytewise insertion is proposed. By using in-DQT technique on standard JPEG test images for cover files with up to 24 bytes of message, results show that steganography image with minimal acceptable image distortion. Thus, inDQT technique provides alternative for embedding message in quantization table.