Optical image encryption using optical scanning and fingerprint keys

Fingerprint authentication is a preferable biometric technique for securing images. Optical scanning cryptography (OSC) is a hybrid optical/digital method to encrypt and decrypt an image using optical scanning technique. In this paper, we propose a new strategy to combine OSC with fingerprints to enhance security. We have verified the effectiveness of the proposed idea in simulations. Subsequently practical implementation of the idea has also been performed with optical heterodyning to confirm the results from simulations. We have also discussed the added security and flexibility of implementation when optical heterodyning is employed in cryptography.