Enhanced Hyperchaotic Image Encryption with CAW Transform and Sea-Lion Optimizer

One of the most effective methods for ensuring data security in the communication and information fields is encryption. There is an important role for multi-chaotic systems in the field of data encryption, due to its wide advantages and its sensitivity to the values of the coefficients and ergodicity. However, some multi-chaotic systems possess low complexity and randomness, which results in unacceptable security behaviour of the current data encryption systems. In this study, we introduce a novel hyperchaotic encryption scheme that enhances image security using a three-phase approach. First, SHA512 is combined with URUK chaos to generate plain-related random sequences. Next, a hybrid CAW transform (Cosine, Arnold, and Wavelet) improves randomness. Finally, the Sea Lion optimization algorithm shuffles pixels to achieve robust encryption. Our experimental results demonstrate that the proposed scheme effectively resists statistical attacks, with superior performance in NPCR, UACI, correlation coefficient, and information entropy tests