How Can We Guarantee Voter Uniqueness in Online Voting Systems?

Preserving Voter Uniqueness in Online Voting Systems

In the realm of digital democracy, ensuring one-time voting is crucial. A PHP/MySQL-based voting system requires a reliable mechanism to prevent duplicate votes.

The Quest for Infallibility: Unattainable Perfection

Seeking absolute uniqueness, some may propose using a unique government identifier (e.g., social security or passport number). However, the implementation hurdles and privacy concerns render this approach impractical.

Nailing Practicality: Relying on Email or Third-Party Authentication

A more realistic solution involves registering users with their email addresses. Since each email address is unique (theoretically), multiple votes from the same user can be prevented. This method also mitigates the risk of users manipulating cookies to cast additional votes.

IP Address: A False Hope

While using IP addresses initially appears sound, it falls short in practice. Shared networks, such as office buildings or university campuses, would unfairly disenfranchise numerous users.

The Downfall of Cookies: Susceptible to Circumvention

Storing cookies on users' devices to track their voting status is problematic. Users can easily disable cookies or delete them to bypass the mechanism, effectively allowing multiple votes from a single device.

The Prudent Choice: Spearheading a Robust Voting System

Email and third-party authentication emerge as viable options for ensuring voter uniqueness while balancing practicality and user convenience. By implementing these measures, voting systems can uphold the integrity of democratic processes in the digital age.

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