Outstanding Innovations in Elections
For “Securing WisVote,” a series of online learning modules which enhanced the cybersecurity of the state-wide election database and in local governments statewide.
The Wisconsin Elections Commission (WEC) administers elections at the municipal level with each municipality’s election data managed by a state-wide database called WisVote. The challenge of ensuring WisVote remains secure is compounded as the number of database users increases. After researching several commercial possibilities on how to secure WisVote, the WEC concluded the most effective option was to create “Securing WisVote,” the state’s own electronic learning modules, focused on cybersecurity best practices, and tailored for the state’s considerable audience. By creating a baseline training program open to all local governments, the WEC helped bridge cybersecurity awareness gaps within the WisVote user population and enhanced overall cybersecurity in local governments statewide.
