A method of encrypting information includes converting an information sequence represented as a strings of bits into a curvilinear coding system, where each element of the curvilinear coding system corresponds to a sub-sequence of successive same-valued bits, converting said curvilinear coding system into a at least one closed curve, and embedding said at least one closed curve in a 2-dimensional pattern. A method for decrypting information includes extracting at least one closed curve from a digitized 2-dimensional pattern, and converting the at least one closed curve into an information sequence represented as a string of bits.