1. A multimode system for receiving data in a retail environment, comprising: a secure input module for receiving high security input and low security input from a customer, the high security input to be communicated by the secure input module in cipher text, and the low security input to be communicated by the secure input module in plaintext; wherein the multimode system is adapted to operate in a high security mode and a low security mode; wherein the multimode system is adapted to enter the low security mode upon detection by the multimode system of a security breach condition; wherein, in the high security mode, the secure input module accepts low security input and high security input; and wherein, in the low security mode, the secure input module accepts the low security input and does not accept the high security input.