Proof of identity is required by EMBs as a fraud control mechanism.
One of the fundamental aims of a democratic electoral system is to ensure that each voter is entitled to one vote, and that each voter casts one vote only. Consequently steps should be taken to avoid 'multiple voting', or the act of one person voting more than once, and instances of persons voting who are not entitled to vote. Provision of proof of identity can be used in two ways to prevent or reduce fraudulent registration and voting. Where proof of identity is provided during the voting process, this can be used to ensure that a person cannot vote using another person's name. The process of verifying proof of identity, both during voter registration and during polling, can be laden with difficulties.