POLYAS Election Glossary

We provide explanations and background information on elections, voting rights and digital democracy

Digital Key

A digital key (or code) consists of random strings, which combined with an algorithm, convert data into coded text. By doing so, data is locked by means of a digital key. 

Types of digital keys
private digital key is used for locking sensitive data, so that only the person who has locked the data can unlock it again. A private key can be used for the creation of a distinct, digital signature. This signature can be used by the recipient to confirm the correct identity of the sender/author. In order to prevent the abuse of private keys from third parties, it can be provided only to its creator with a password. 

An open digital key is generated from a private key and can be given out to third parites, which can then lock data that only the creator of the corresponding private key can unlock. 

Digital keys in online voting 
In POLYAS' online voting system, all data is stored and processed in coded form. By doing so, data manipulation is prevented and data integrity is ensured.  

See also: Online Voting, Data Protection


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