In Trend-Setting Move, Safeway Stores To Install Privacy Key Pads At Check-Outs
By Dave Reynolds, Inclusion Daily Express
October 31, 2006

PLEASANTON, CALIFORNIA--The leaders of organizations representing blind Americans are praising an announcement that Safeway stores will be installing equipment to protect the privacy and security of shoppers with vision-related disabilities.

According to a Safeway press release, the new devices, which are to be installed in stores across the country over the next 12 months, plug into existing touch screen point of sale payment machines at checkout counters. The devices will have tactile keys arranged like a standard telephone keypad, so that shoppers who have difficulty reading touch screens can privately and independently enter their PIN, telephone number, and other confidential information.

The devices are already installed in all California Safeway stores.

Tuesday's announcement came as the result of collaboration between Safeway and advocacy organizations, including the American Foundation for the Blind, American Council of the Blind, and the California Council of the Blind.

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Reproduced here under special arrangement with Inclusion Daily Express international disability rights news service.
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