Security Evaluation of a Novel MAC Based on Hash Functions and 6D Chaotic Maps

In information systems and computer networks, the Hash Message Authentication Code (HMAC) algorithm is a crucial security mechanism widely utilized to ensure authentication and data integrity. Despite its conceptual simplicity, HMAC relies on hash functions and requires a secret key. The algorithm's strength derives from cryptography principles such as equilibrium and the avalanche effect. However, the standard HMAC algorithm may have certain shortcomings, particularly in resistance to MAC collision attacks and sensitivity to input changes. Our research proposes a new HMAC algorithm incorporating six-dimensional (6D) hyper-chaotic systems to enhance its cryptography capabilities. Our 6D-HMAC algorithm demonstrates resilience against MAC collision attacks, increased sensitivity to keys, plain text, and error propagation, and provides superior security compared to traditional methods.