Secret Hiding Mechanism Using QR Barcode

QR code is the commonly used two-dimensional (2D) barcode recently with the advantages of larger QR content and error correction capability. Based on the error correction property of QR code, we designed a secret hiding technique for QR barcode. The proposed scheme can conceal the secret data into the cover QR code without distorting the readability of QR content. That is, general browsers can read the QR content from the marked QR code for the sake of reducing attention. Only the authorized receiver can encrypt and retrieve the secret from the marked QR code. The secret payload of the designed scheme is adjustable. The scheme can convey larger secret into a QR code according to the selection of the QR version and the error correction level. The simulations demonstrate that the designed scheme is efficient and low computational complexity. The mechanism can be applied to the QR reader and mobile phone.