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Are electronic voting machines reliable, or can they be hacked by the government or other external parties?

Dianna Lease

Electronic voting machines are a controversial subject when it comes to their reliability and security. There are arguments for and against their use, with some people believing that they are a secure way of casting votes, while others believe that they are easily hackable.

Firstly, it is important to consider the positive aspects of electronic voting. One of the main arguments in favor of these machines is that they are quicker and more efficient than traditional paper ballots. Electronic voting machines can be programmed to count votes automatically, which eliminates the need for a manual count. This means that results can be calculated quickly and accurately, reducing the risk of human error. In addition, electronic voting machines are more accessible for people with disabilities, as they can provide audio or visual assistance to help voters cast their ballots.

However, there are also concerns about their security and susceptibility to hacking. Critics argue that electronic voting machines can be easily hacked by external parties, such as the government or other malicious actors. This is a significant concern, as any interference could potentially undermine the integrity of the election. Hackers could potentially manipulate the results to favor a particular candidate or party, leading to a result that is unrepresentative of the will of the people.

Another issue with electronic voting machines is that they are not always reliable. These machines are often expensive to purchase and maintain, and they can break down or malfunction. This can have serious repercussions for the election, as voters may be unable to cast their ballots or their votes may not be counted properly. In addition, some electronic voting machines are prone to errors such as misreads or miscounts, which can also have a significant impact on the outcome of the election.

To address these concerns, it is important to implement robust security measures when using electronic voting machines. This includes having secure systems in place to prevent hacking attempts, as well as regular testing and maintenance of the machines to ensure that they are functioning correctly. Another important step is to ensure that there is a paper trail of every vote cast, which can be used to verify the results in the event of any disputes or concerns.

In conclusion, electronic voting machines can be a useful tool for conducting elections in a more efficient and accessible manner. However, their reliability and security must be carefully considered before they are implemented. It is crucial to have measures in place to prevent hacking attempts and ensure that every vote is counted accurately. By taking these steps, we can help to ensure that electronic voting machines are a secure and trustworthy way of casting ballots.