Ghana urged to ensure digital integrity ahead of December polls  – Cybersecurity expert

By Daniel NONOR, Accra   

In the lead-up to the December 2024 general elections, Mr. Divine S.K. Agbeti, a cybersecurity lead and head advisor at the Africa Center for Digital Transformation, underscored the critical need for robust cybersecurity measures to protect the integrity of the country’s digital systems.

Speaking on ZED 101.9 FM’s morning show on the topic, “Maintaining the Integrity of Ghana’s Digital Systems during the 2024 Elections,” Agbeti highlighted significant risks that could undermine the voting process.

He stressed that without stringent cybersecurity protocols, many voters could face disenfranchisement.

Agbeti pointed out that data transferred from biometric voting machines to central databases is particularly vulnerable to interception.

He explained that such data could be redirected, preventing it from reaching the official database.

This scenario could result in voters arriving at polling stations on Election Day to find their names missing from the register, despite having completed the registration process.

In addition to data interception, Agbeti warned of the risk of software attacks on electoral systems.

These attacks could render electoral officers unable to access critical portions of voter data, complicating the voting process and potentially leading to widespread disenfranchisement.

To combat these threats, Agbeti emphasized the importance of raising awareness about data protection and ensuring strict control and monitoring of access to the voter register.

He recommended that political parties invest in building robust cybersecurity units to safeguard their data and systems. Collaborating with institutions specializing in cybersecurity is also crucial.

This cooperation will help ensure the integrity and security of the elections, providing a transparent and fair process for all voters.

Agbeti referenced recent reports of missing biometric verification devices and laptops as a major red flag that needs to be addressed.

These devices, crucial for voter verification, are at risk of being used for unauthorized purposes. Ensuring that these devices are trackable and accounted for is a key step in preventing malicious activities.

One of the most concerning threats is the potential for “man-in-the-middle” attacks, where biometric data is spoofed.

Attackers could use materials like silicon to create fake fingerprints and bypass security measures.

While this threat may seem advanced, Agbeti stressed that it is a real possibility that must be addressed with serious measures.

Agbeti emphasized that ensuring cybersecurity in an election year is not just a technical challenge but a crucial aspect of maintaining public trust in the electoral process.

Comprehensive measures must be taken to protect the integrity of the system, ensuring that every legitimate vote is counted and the election remains secure.