Transport for London (TfL) is now once more accepting applications for 18+ Oyster, 18-25 Care Leaver, and Apprentice Oyster photocards following a cyber security breach on September 1st.

As of Monday 4 November, TfL is implementing a phased approach to concession photocard applications, aiming to process them as swiftly as possible, with those who have been finically affected by the cyber attack being dealt with directly.

As things start to return to normal, Transport for London plans to begin accepting new applications for the 60+ Oyster photocard, the 5-10, 11-15, and 16+ Zip Oyster photocards by late November.

After applying for new photocards, customers may transfer any remaining credit from expired Zip photocards to the new ones by talking to, or visiting, one of TfL customer services centres.

Customers are still advised to maintain a record of any fares they believe should be refunded. While those who need to apply for a Freedom Pass can still do so through the London Councils.

Since the security breach, TfL has collaborated extensively with the National Crime Agency and the National Cyber Security Centre throughout this process and has informed the Information Commissioner’s Office, emphasising that the security of its network and customer data is a priority.

In response to the incident, TfL made the tough choice to temporarily suspend new concession photocard applications while they conducted essential security checks.

Now that the services are being restored, it is hoped that normality can begin to resume with any individual claims and cases dealt with promptly.

‘TfL has been working incredibly hard around the clock to restore the services which had to be temporarily taken offline while it responded to a highly sophisticated cyber attack. The Mayor and I commend TfL on its response, which has kept London moving and avoided the consequences of the attack being even worse.

We’re really pleased TfL has now started accepting Oyster photocard applications for several concessions, including 18+ Student and 18 – 25 Care Leavers, and are assured work is ongoing to ensure that other photocard applications are opened as quickly as possible in the coming weeks.’

Deputy Mayor for Transport, Seb Dance