Can We Ensure Fair and Secure Online Elections?

The age of digital democracy is upon us, with the internet becoming an indispensable tool for participation in various forms of governance. However, the bad guys have moved from simply hacking votes to hacking voters through the spread of misinformation. While the idea of online elections seems promising, the reality is complex and fraught with challenges.

Can We Make Online Elections Secure and Fair?

By any means, yes. However, in practical terms, the answer is an absolute no. If resources were limitless, it would be feasible to build devices specifically for voting that prioritize security over convenience. Devices like a Trezor cryptocurrency wallet, which would have a secure interface, could be a good starting point. These devices would be designed with the utmost security and authentication mechanisms in mind, ensuring that voter data and transactions are protected.

Challenges and Concerns

The United States faces unique challenges when it comes to online elections. With high levels of partisan rancor and distrust, any attempt at online voting could lead to disaster. Many voters are already skeptical about the security of internet voting, and the fear of hacking is real. However, the biggest concern is not the actual hacking of the system, but the perception of hacking, or even the allegations of hacking. Even if the system is secure, there is no convincing way to prevent claims of tampering, which can escalate into significant civil unrest.

Consider the example of the Earth being flat, or the moon landing being a hoax. In times of partisan rancor and misinformation, even the most sophisticated security measures may not be enough. The intricate layers of security and encryption are unlikely to quiet the voices of those who believe in alternative truths. They see doubts as a matter of pride, and they will not easily accept any “expert” assurances, especially from the opposing party.

The Complexities of Trust

One of the most significant hurdles in online elections is trust. Even with advanced security measures, people are skeptical. The complexity of the system is likely to be viewed as a weakness, not a strength. Simple, user-friendly interfaces are favored over complex mechanisms that may appear to be vulnerabilities. The more layers of security are added, the less faith people will have in the system. The fear of a hack is so pervasive that it can cloud judgment, regardless of the actual risk.

The result would be a significant portion of the electorate firmly believing that the election was stolen. There would be no paper trail, no recount, and no way to prove otherwise. The assertion that “Trust me, you lost fair and square” would fall on deaf ears. In an environment where trust is already eroded, such claims would only fuel further mistrust and unrest.

Conclusion

The debate over online elections is not just about technology and security; it is a deeply social and political issue. While the potential of digital democracy is vast, the challenges of securing and verifying these elections must be addressed. Until the underlying issues of trust, misinformation, and partisanship are resolved, the road to a secure and fair online election in the United States is a long and challenging one.