Software security company Vasco has unveiled its Digipass 840 Comfort Voice, a speaking Digipass card reader designed for blind and visually impaired internet users.

A person with reduced eyesight will now be able to have the same level of Digipass security as other e-bank account holders or e-commerce users.

All Digipass client authentication products use Vasco's core authentication engine, the Vacman Controller. This means that companies can choose which type of client authentication device they offer to different user/customer segments.

The Comfort Voice 840 features a speech-based user interface that provides audio feedback of entered data and selected functions.

The unit also uses a large display and keypad, with oversized tactile keys to assist those with limited eyesight.

The unit uses e-signature and one-time password functionality, converted into voice and output via a built-in speaker or headset if privacy is required.

It supports Digipass standard, EMV-CAP, Visa dynamic password authentication 1.1, German Sm@rt TAN and Belgian eID Card.

"Accessibility is one of the most important success factors for any e-commerce application," said Jan Valcke, president and chief operating officer at Vasco.

"Unfortunately, few technology vendors have an eye for the needs of visually impaired consumers. As a consequence, this user segment does not reach the e-commerce vendors' offerings.

"Worldwide, over 20 leading banks already offer speech enabled Digipasses to a part of their customer base."

The Comfort Voice 840 is available immediately.