A method for embedding data into a media signal receives a media signal, divides the media signal into blocks of samples, and calculates a function of the samples in the blocks, including transformations of samples in the blocks to corresponding block values. A processor uses the block value to determine a factor for samples in the blocks to be multiplied by the samples so that when a data embedding function is evaluated for the block, an output of the data embedding function corresponds to a data value representing desired digital data embedded in the block. A compatible decoder extracts this embedded data from the media signal. The decoder divides the media signal into blocks of samples and calculates a function of the samples in the blocks, including transformations of samples in the blocks to corresponding block values. A processor processes the block value to evaluate a data embedding function to determine digital data embedded in the block.