The recent bi-partisan approach taken by hackers in attacking both the Democratic National Committee and high ranking members of the Republican party has brought the issue of cybersecurity and the safety of online voter registration data into the limelight as election day quickly approaches.

While election officials across the country have been working to implement protections for their voter registration data, the Department of Homeland Security released a Security Tip stressing the importance of “awareness and constant vigilance” to ensure good cybersecurity of voter registration databases. The DHS guidance was likely also inspired by reports that hackers targeted voter registration systems in 20 states. The DHS Security Tip addresses potential threats to voter data, encourages the adoption of certain prevention measures, and suggests questions that should be asked to pinpoint any potential security vulnerabilities.

The DHS Security Tip not only provides helpful guidance for keeping online voter registration data safe, but also for ensuring the safety of government networks. In an era where more data is being collected and stored online, in addition to public agencies engaging in more online monetary transactions, it is important for public agencies to ensure recommended privacy and security protections are in place. Further, public agencies should understand and have incident response and business continuity plans in place as hackers are seeking valuable information stored by both public and private entities.

Perhaps most importantly, public entities should understand they are not alone and there are resources in place at the state and federal level to help ensure the safety of important online information such as voter registration data, and to assist with any suspected or actual unauthorized infiltration of a network.

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