A multimode system for receiving data in a retail environment includes: 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. The multimode system is adapted to operate in a high security mode and a low security mode. The multimode system is adapted to enter the low security mode upon detection by the multimode system of a security breach condition. In the high security mode, the secure input module accepts low security input and high security input. In the low security mode, the secure input module accepts the low security input and does not accept the high security input.