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Activity (Hands-On)Grades 9 - 12

An Implementation of Steganography

A two-column table titled: What is Hidden, Output Result. Four rows indicate different levels of hidden data: nothing, 1kb random data, 5 kb random data, "If" poem composed of 1.5 kb ASCII text, with corresponding output results that look like a scattering of blips on a screen with variations from the normal blips. The image shows data in a file that has different levels of data hiddenChi-square image tests show data hidden using steganography.

Students apply the design process to the problem of hiding a message in a digital image using steganographic methods, a PictureEdit Java class, and API (provided as an attachment). They identify the problems and limitations associated with this task, brainstorm solutions, select a solution, and implement it. Once their messages are hidden, classmates attempt to decipher them. Based on the outcome of the testing phase, students refine and improve their solutions.

Software engineers follow the engineering design process to develop solutions (software applications) that accomplish tasks or solve problems. Software engineers also analyze data using a range of creative techniques to discover patterns and relationships. Modern steganography is the art or science of hiding data (messages) inside of digital files. This means that software engineers perform analyses that create and identify these hidden messages. In examples dealing with terrorism communication, their success or failure to identify messages can determine the outcome of an attack and citizen safety.

After this activity, students should be able to:

  • Create a digital document with a hidden message.
  • Apply the design process to solve a problem.
  • Discover a message hidden using steganography.

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