In this paper, we present a novel algorithm that scrambles and descrambles a H.264/AVC video element stream. In particular, the proposed method selectively exploits the unique characteristics of H.264/AVC video coding standard. Specifically, we manipulate DCT coefficients and CABAC initialization table, to secure the visual content of H.264/AVC video. This new algorithm is light-weight and able to support the level of security (scrambling strength) as well. Extensive experimental results indicate that the proposed algorithm is highly effective and feasible, yet computationally very efficient.

The power consumption of video enabled mobile devices is an ongoing challenge. The computational burden caused by the motion estimation process involved in video compression is the main cause for this consumption. We developed a new algorithm which drastically reduces the computation costs of the motion estimation process over the existing techniques. Our algorithm uses only 0.5% of the computational complexity of the full search method, making it the fastest presently available motion compensation method