"Likewise, the process in many States allowed mailed-in ballots and those deposited in ballot boxes to be accepted without serious verification".
And yet.....
Voter Signature Verification and Ballot Authentication:
For ballots collected from drop boxes (especially mail-in or absentee ballots), the process includes verifying the voter’s identity. This is often done by matching the signature on the ballot envelope with the signature on file for the voter. If a signature mismatch occurs, many states notify the voter, allowing them to correct (“cure”) the issue so their vote can be counted. In states where voter ID is required for mail-in ballots, ID numbers or additional identifying information may also be verified before processing the vote