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Steghide

Introduction to Steghide​

Steghide is a command-line tool used for embedding and extracting data within image and audio files. It is commonly used in digital forensics and security contexts for steganography, the practice of concealing data within other non-suspicious files.

Key Features​

  • Support for Multiple File Formats: Can work with a variety of file formats including JPEG, BMP, WAV, and AU.

  • Password Protection: Embedded data can be encrypted with a passphrase, adding an extra layer of security.

  • Compression: Provides the ability to compress the data before embedding it to save space and reduce the size of the cover file.

  • Extraction of Hidden Data: Capable of extracting hidden data from cover files, supporting various steganographic techniques.

Installation​

Linux (Debian/Ubuntu)​

sudo apt install steghide

Basic Usage​

Embedding Data​

To embed a file into an image, use the following command:

steghide embed -cf cover_image.jpg -ef secret_file.txt
  • -cf specifies the cover file (e.g., an image).
  • -ef specifies the file to be hidden.

Extracting Data​

To extract hidden data from a file:

steghide extract -sf cover_image.jpg
  • -sf specifies the stego file (e.g., the image containing hidden data).

Listing Embedded Files​

To list files embedded in a cover file:

steghide info cover_image.jpg

External Resources​

Steghide is a versatile tool for hiding and extracting data, providing an effective means of data concealment in digital files. Its support for multiple formats and encryption features make it a valuable tool for security and forensic applications.