Such a reader can be built into laptops, keyboards, smartphones, available as small stand-alone USB devices, etc.. Web browsers, POS systems, etc. can send a request to the reader and tell the user to place their card on it and check the card's display.
Transactions without a valid signature can simply be discarded.
If the system is implemented properly, the only way to commit fraud should be to physically steal the card.
(A more paranoid version could include buttons on the card for entering a passcode, so that even if the card is stolen, it would be difficult to use, at least before being reported stolen.)
The device is not connected to the computer, rather, you have to type some info (like value of the transaction) and it generates a code you type back in the website
For this device to work you need to type the card pin
Of course this wouldn't work in the US since they're still stuck with the magstripe
I'm curious, what other undertakings do you think are impossible? WiFi? Bluetooth? GSM?