This study is mainly concerned with the problem on synchronization criteria for Markovian jumping time delayed bidirectional associative memory neural networks and their applications in secure image communications. Based on the variable transformation method, the addressed second order differential equations are transformed into first order differential equations. Then, by constructing a suitable Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional and based on integral inequalities, the criteria which ensure the synchronization between the uncontrolled system and controlled system are established through designed feedback controllers and linear matrix inequalities. Further, the proposed results proved that the error system is globally asymptotically stable in the mean square. Moreover, numerical illustrations are provided to validate the effectiveness of the derived analytical results. Finally, the application of addressed system is explored via image encryption/decryption process. © 2016 Elsevier Ltd