This paper introduces a novel multi-image encryption and hiding algorithm (MiEHA) designed to protect the privacy of multiple images in the digital information era. The algorithm leverages a new three-dimensional coupled chaotic model (3D-CCM) and incorporates cross-plane confusion, diffusion, and a three-dimensional discrete cosine transform (3D-DCT). The 3D-CCM, which uses Logistic map and Iterative chaotic map (3D-LICM), addresses security concerns by generating pseudo-random keystreams. The algorithm reorganizes secret plain images into three matrices, applies cross-plane confusion, 3D Zigzag confusion-diffusion, and cross-plane diffusion to encrypt these matrices, and then embeds the encrypted images into the DCT coefficients of a color carrier image, resulting in a visually meaningful cipher image. The proposed method effectively handles multiple images with a single key set, enhancing security and visual quality. The paper also discusses related knowledge, including the 3D-DCT and 3D-CCM, and provides a detailed description of the MiEHA process, followed by experimental results and security analyses.This paper introduces a novel multi-image encryption and hiding algorithm (MiEHA) designed to protect the privacy of multiple images in the digital information era. The algorithm leverages a new three-dimensional coupled chaotic model (3D-CCM) and incorporates cross-plane confusion, diffusion, and a three-dimensional discrete cosine transform (3D-DCT). The 3D-CCM, which uses Logistic map and Iterative chaotic map (3D-LICM), addresses security concerns by generating pseudo-random keystreams. The algorithm reorganizes secret plain images into three matrices, applies cross-plane confusion, 3D Zigzag confusion-diffusion, and cross-plane diffusion to encrypt these matrices, and then embeds the encrypted images into the DCT coefficients of a color carrier image, resulting in a visually meaningful cipher image. The proposed method effectively handles multiple images with a single key set, enhancing security and visual quality. The paper also discusses related knowledge, including the 3D-DCT and 3D-CCM, and provides a detailed description of the MiEHA process, followed by experimental results and security analyses.