An image decrypting apparatus derives spectral reflectance of the face of
an original on the basis of obtained original image data, built-in light
source data and basis function data, and obtains weighted coefficients of
each pixel as object color component data. The apparatus stores a file
including the basis function data used at the time of obtaining the
spectral reflectance as a key file, and stores a file including the
object color component data as an encrypted file. From each of the key
file and the encrypted file, the original image data cannot be
reproduced. By using the key file and the encrypted file in a correct
combination, the original image data can be reproduced. In such a manner,
the original image data can be protected.