CBDCs (Central Bank Digital Currencies) are digital versions of traditional currencies issued by central banks. When launching an online wallet for a CBDC, there are several potential problems that may arise regarding compliance with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) for accessibility.

WCAG is a set of guidelines developed by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) to make digital content more accessible to people with disabilities. Some of the potential problems that CBDCs may face when launching an online wallet in compliance with WCAG include:

Accessibility of user interface

The user interface of an online wallet should be designed to ensure that it is accessible to users with disabilities. This means that the interface should be easy to use, navigate, and understand for people with various disabilities, such as visual, auditory, cognitive, or motor impairments.
Here are some examples of specific accessibility considerations that should be taken into account when designing the user interface of an online wallet:

Text alternatives for non-text content: All images, videos, and other non-text content should have text alternatives that can be read by screen readers and other assistive technologies. This allows users with visual impairments to understand the content of the online wallet.
Proper labeling of form fields: Form fields should be labeled clearly and unambiguously, and they should have clear instructions for filling them out. This helps users with cognitive impairments or who use assistive technologies to understand how to input information.
Consistent layout and navigation: The online wallet should have a clear and consistent layout that is easy to navigate. This includes using headings to organize content, having a logical reading order, and using consistent styling for buttons and links.
Keyboard accessibility: The online wallet should be fully accessible using a keyboard alone, without the need for a mouse or other pointing device. This helps users with motor impairments or who use assistive technologies such as keyboard-only navigation to access the content.
Color contrast: The colors used in the online wallet should have sufficient contrast to be easily readable by users with low vision or color blindness.
Adjustable font size: Users should be able to adjust the font size of the online wallet to suit their needs.
By designing the user interface of an online wallet with accessibility in mind, CBDCs can ensure that the wallet is usable by the widest range of users, including those with disabilities. This not only promotes inclusivity but also helps CBDCs to comply with accessibility laws and regulations.

Compatibility with assistive technology

Assistive technology is software or hardware that helps people with disabilities to interact with digital content. Examples of assistive technology include screen readers, speech recognition software, and braille displays. Online wallets should be designed to be compatible with various types of assistive technology to ensure that users with disabilities can access and use the wallet.

Here are some specific considerations that should be taken into account when designing an online wallet for compatibility with assistive technology:

Compatibility with screen readers: Screen readers are software programs that read the content of a computer screen aloud for users who are blind or visually impaired. The online wallet should be designed so that screen readers can navigate the content and read it aloud to the user.
Compatibility with speech recognition software: Speech recognition software allows users to control a computer or device with their voice. The online wallet should be designed so that it can be controlled using speech recognition software, for example by providing clear voice commands or a simple and predictable interface.
Compatibility with braille displays: Braille displays are devices that allow people who are blind or visually impaired to read digital content through tactile feedback. The online wallet should be designed so that it is compatible with braille displays, for example by providing a text-only mode or a high-contrast mode.
Keyboard accessibility: As mentioned earlier, the online wallet should be fully accessible using a keyboard alone, without the need for a mouse or other pointing device. This helps users with motor impairments or who use assistive technologies such as keyboard-only navigation to access the content.
Language and pronunciation: The online wallet should be designed to recognize and pronounce different languages and accents accurately, to ensure that users can interact with the wallet effectively.

By designing online wallets to be compatible with assistive technology, CBDCs can ensure that the wallets are accessible to users with disabilities, regardless of their individual needs or preferences. This helps to promote inclusivity and ensures that CBDCs comply with accessibility laws and regulations.

Security and privacy considerations

Online wallets are used to store and manage digital assets, which makes them a target for cyber attacks. Security and privacy are critical considerations when designing an online wallet to ensure that users’ digital assets are protected and their personal information is kept confidential. Here are some specific security and privacy considerations that should be taken into account when designing an online wallet:

Encryption: All data transmitted between the online wallet and the server should be encrypted using secure protocols to prevent unauthorized access.
Authentication: Users should be required to authenticate themselves using strong and secure methods, such as two-factor authentication, biometric authentication, or a password with a minimum length and complexity requirements.
Protection against hacking: Online wallets should be designed with protection against hacking, such as using firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and other security measures to prevent unauthorized access and attacks.
Regular software updates: Online wallets should be regularly updated to ensure that they are running the latest software and security patches, reducing the risk of vulnerabilities being exploited.
Privacy: Personal information should be protected and kept confidential by using privacy-preserving technologies, such as pseudonymization, anonymization, or end-to-end encryption.
Data backup: Online wallets should have a data backup system in place to prevent the loss of user data in case of an attack or technical failure.
Compliance with data protection laws: Online wallets should comply with data protection laws, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), to ensure that users’ personal data is handled responsibly and transparently.
By considering these security and privacy considerations when designing an online wallet, CBDCs can ensure that the wallet is secure and safe for users to use. This helps to promote user trust in the wallet and encourages wider adoption of the CBDC.

Compliance with WCAG guidelines

The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) are a set of guidelines developed by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) to ensure that websites and web applications are accessible to people with disabilities. WCAG guidelines cover various aspects of website accessibility, including text alternatives, keyboard accessibility, and contrast ratios, among others.

Compliance with WCAG guidelines is critical when designing an online wallet to ensure that users with disabilities can access and use the wallet. Here are some specific WCAG guidelines that should be taken into account when designing an online wallet:

Text alternatives: All images, videos, and other non-text content should have text alternatives that describe the content, allowing users with visual impairments to access the content.
Keyboard accessibility: All functionality of the online wallet should be accessible using a keyboard alone, without the need for a mouse or other pointing device, ensuring that users with motor impairments or who use keyboard-only navigation can access the content.
Contrast ratios: The color contrast between text and background should be sufficient to ensure that text is readable for users with low vision or color vision impairments.
Descriptive headings: Headings should be used to structure the content of the online wallet in a meaningful way, making it easier for users with screen readers or other assistive technologies to navigate the content.
Error messages: Error messages should be clear and concise, providing helpful instructions for users to correct the error, regardless of their level of ability.

By complying with WCAG guidelines, CBDCs can ensure that their online wallet is accessible to users with disabilities, promoting inclusivity and ensuring compliance with accessibility laws and regulations. This helps to ensure that users with disabilities can access and use the CBDC and enjoy the same benefits as other users.