PSO-GWO Optimized Encryption Algorithm for Secure Medical Image Transmission in IoT-Cloud Healthcare Systems

• Abdul Muhammed Rasheed,
• R. Mathusoothana S. Kumar,
• Amal Ajayan,

Vol. 20, No. 2, February 28, 2026
10.3837/tiis.2026.02.008, Download Paper (Free):

• Chaos-based cryptography
• Cloud computing
• IoMT security
• Medical image encryption
• PSO-GWO optimization

Abstract

Contemporary healthcare is heavily reliant on Internet of Things (IoT) devices and cloud infrastructure, resulting in significant improvements in patient care delivery. Nonetheless, this digital transformation presents considerable security challenges, especially in the transmission of sensitive medical imaging data. Current encryption methods often struggle to strike a balance between the need for strong security and the speed required for urgent medical applications. An innovative hybrid approach is presented, combining Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) with Grey Wolf Optimizer (GWO) to enhance medical image security in IoT-cloud healthcare frameworks. The approach we employ combines chaotic mathematics, Linear Feedback Shift Register (LFSR) technology, and SHA-256 hashing, establishing several security layers through adaptive S-box replacement, permutation strategies, and diffusion processes. Evaluation across four unique medical imaging modalities demonstrates outstanding security performance, with a Unified Average Changing Intensity (UACI) of 33.61%, a Number of Pixels Change Rate (NPCR) of 99.72%, and an entropy value of 8.001. The algorithm efficiently processes standard medical images in under one second and utilizes low memory, positioning it as an ideal solution for resource-constrained IoT devices. Thorough validation using NIST SP800-22 statistical testing shows robust protection against cryptographic threats. This framework facilitates secure and prompt sharing of medical data, ensuring practical use in emergency situations and ongoing patient monitoring systems.

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