Usually, this is because the card was not inserted properly, and they should try it again.  If that does not resolve the issue, try the following options until you resolve the issue.

1. Reboot the terminal.
2. Clean the terminal.  This is done using cleaning cards that can be purchased at office supply stores, online, or through RITE.
3. Repair or replace the terminal - If you got your terminal from your Credit Card Processor, contact them.  Otherwise, contact RITE to confirm if the terminal is covered by the warranty and what your options are.  We will need to confirm the serial number of the terminal which can be found on the bottom of the terminal.  If the bottom is not easily accessed, we do have a way of verifying it, which will require us to connect to the POS computer.