According to Latitude E6440 Owner Manual, the keys appear to be black and the letters on the keys are white:

Dell Latitude E6440 Owner's Manual | Dell US

Since you are having a hard time seeing the keys, I'd suggest you quickly return computer to Dell or retailer from which it was purchased. Here's Dell Return Policy on Refurbished Systems:

You may return your refurbished system up to 21 days from the date of invoice, with the exception of refurbished servers and storage. Refurbished servers and storage products can be returned up to 30 days from the date of invoice.

Refurbished Systems Return Policy | Dell

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@LSUFAN51 

I have purchased used laptops from Dell, they will not have keys that are almost completely rubbed out from use.

@drb417 

If you bought the laptop on eBay, return it.

thanks for responding. got off of Amazon

That doesn't look right.

Odd thing is that the lettering on all the keys are faded. It is as if someone used some sort of chemical to clean it or something and this was the result.

You can see what genuine E6440 keyboard looks like if you go on eBay.

Just return it.

Any update drb417? You were able to get a refund or another computer from the Amazon's seller? 

I have an Inspiron 5520 and can't see the letters or numbers on the keys.  I have purchased Dell for years and never had this problem.  When I called support they said that there wasn't anything they could do-just the white characters on the silver.   Needless to say, I am not a happy camper either, will not buy another.

@Ann MR 

You have 30 days to return for a refund if you purchased from Dell. I am not sure why you didn't.