VoteMate: A Decentralized Application for Scalable Electronic Voting on EVM-Based Blockchain

TL;DR

The paper tackles the challenge of secure, scalable online elections by proposing VoteMate, a DApp that implements the SBVote end-to-end verifiable protocol on an EVM-based blockchain. It combines on-chain verification with off-chain cryptography, using $1$-out-of-$k$ voting and noninteractive zero-knowledge proofs to ensure valid votes without revealing voter choices, coordinated by an election authority via MPC keys. The architecture comprises an Angular/Web3.js-based frontend, a Node.js backend for identity and scheduling, and smart contracts that enforce the protocol on-chain, enabling transparent tallying and auditability. While the system demonstrates strong security and verifiability with reduced central trust, scalability remains a primary challenge for high candidate participation.

Abstract

Voting is a cornerstone of democracy, allowing citizens to express their will and make collective decisions. With advancing technology, online voting is gaining popularity as it enables voting from anywhere with Internet access, eliminating the need for printed ballots or polling stations. However, despite its benefits, online voting carries significant risks. A single vulnerability could be exploited to manipulate elections on a large scale. Centralized systems can be secure but may lack transparency and confidentiality, especially if those in power manipulate them. Blockchain-based voting offers a transparent, tamper-resistant alternative with end-to-end verifiability and strong security. Adding cryptographic layers can also ensure voter confidentiality.