This paper introduces a new parametric switching chaotic system (PSCS) and its corresponding transforms for image encryption. The proposed PSCS has a simple structure and integrates the Logistic, Sine and Tent maps into one single system. The PSCS shows more general properties, including the Sine and Tent maps as special instances. It has complex chaotic behaviors. A novel image encryption algorithm is introduced using the proposed PSCS and its transforms. Simulation results and security analysis are given to demonstrate that the proposed algorithm can encrypt different types of images with a high level of security. © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.