Microsoft aims to demonstrate that its election security system is not just a theory. Developers introduced the first voting system that utilized ElectionGuard technology, which is intended to facilitate easier and more secure voting.
The hardware side of the system includes a Surface tablet, a printer, and an adaptive Xbox controller, making voting more accessible for everyone. This system is unique as it proves that ordinary hardware components can be used for voting, combined via software.
After a voter casts their vote using a tablet or controller, ElectionGuard counts the votes using homomorphic encryption, while keeping the data encrypted. Furthermore, the system provides each voter with a unique code that allows them to verify online whether their vote was counted correctly. An additional level of verification is a paper ballot printed by the printer, which voters can mark and place in a special ballot box.
Microsoft states that the 'pilot' version of the secure voting system will be used in US elections next year. Developers believe that ElectionGuard should be implemented as soon as possible. The company noted that since the introduction of AccountGuard in 2018, about 10,000 clients have been notified of being victims of account breaches. The statement mentions that other countries are seeking to interfere in US electoral processes using cyberattacks, making vulnerable voting machines an easy target for hackers.
Source: 3dnews.ru
