Caught using fake e-ticket

[kerplunker]

Hi, new to the thread and absolutely bricking it right now, so could use some guidance. Used a screenshot of an edited e-ticket (date change and Aztec scramble) on a GTR train (about 20 quid) single, ticket.

The inspector was nice, I panicked and said it was given to me by a friend and said it might be a screen issue when the ticket didn't scan multiple times. The inspector took my details and gave me the orange slip, didn't lie or anything regarding this and was respectful throughout his follow-up questions, although I'm sure it doesn't mean much as the offence is regarding the falsification.

I offered to buy a ticket if there was an issue a few times, but he said if it was correct, then I'd be buying it for no reason. I understand the legal ramifications entirely, although I would really appreciate some advice on settling this out of court as I'm in my early 20s and am meant to be starting my first proper job soon and any conviction would have dire consequences for me.

I haven't received anything yet because it only happened recently, and I imagine it's gone for further analysis. I've spoken to two law firms already, although I'm unsure of if this is the right thing to do. I am also considering pre-emptively writing a non-confessional but remorseful letter, as I've felt nothing but that these past few days.

Thanks.

== Doublepost prevention - post automatically merged: 3 Aug 2025 ==

Also, just to mention if it provides more clarity, this is the first type of offence/warning/incident I've ever had with Trainline or TOC, otherwise I think my records are basically clean, and I've spent a lot of money on tickets this last year, if the inquisition ever led to that fact.

 

[Mcr Warrior]

@kerplunker. Welcome to the forum. Edited e-tickets usually don't pass inspection.

I reckon that, provided you've given your correct name and address, GTR will be in touch with you in due course, and you'll likely be asked to pay them the unpaid fare (at the full Anytime Day Single rate) plus a sizeable three figure admin fee added on top. In the meantime, can you upload a pic/photo of the "orange slip" you were issued with. Be sure to cover up or obscure any name and address and/or ID number that may be showing.

 

[kerplunker]

Hi @Mcr Warrior thanks for the speedy reply, that's somewhat reassuring, I've attached the pictures of the orange slip he gave me.

 

[AlterEgo]

Did you admit to forging the ticket to the inspector? Were you accused of doing that?

Was a picture taken of the ticket?

 

[kerplunker]

@AlterEgo At no point did I admit to forging a ticket or anything. I was not accused of it either, it was simply confusion on both sides as to why it did not scan.

A picture was taken of my phone screen and of my railcard too (which is valid and has a clean history if there is inquisition).

 

[SuspectUsual]

Also just to mention if it provides more clarity, this is the first type of offence/warning/incident I've ever had with a trainline or TOC, otherwise I think my records are basically clean and I've spent a lot of money on tickets this last year if the inquisition ever led to that fact.

Maybe I’m reading more into this than I should, but that word “basically” worries me a bit. Either your record, as you put it, is clean or not clean. Can you clarify?

 

[kerplunker]

Maybe I’m reading more into this than I should, but that word “basically” worries me a bit. Either your record, as you put it, is clean or not clean. Can you clarify?

Hi, really good question and good to point out, I, to the best of my ability, think my record is clean regarding train travel. I have never been stopped or questioned beyond the odd fare alteration for off-peak/ peak confusion. Sorry just colloquial language but yeah you're right, it's important.

 

[saismee]

Did you also alter the text at the bottom of the ticket, below the aztec code?

 

[kerplunker]

Did you also alter the text at the bottom of the ticket, below the aztec code?

That's the bit I'm unsure of, it was an AI that edited it so it may have created a gibberish text for this as it did with the Aztec code regeneration, or it may not have. What difference would it make?

 

[Snow1964]

That's the bit I'm unsure of, it was an AI that edited it so it may have created a gibberish text for this as it did with the Aztec code regeneration or it may not have. What difference would it make?

If there is inconsistency between the code, the destinations and date, and the reference number, then it will be obvious that the ticket has been photoshopped from a real one.

Considerable difference between intention of someone deliberately falsifying a ticket, who is clearly trying to defraud and get a free ride, compared to someone who has bought a real ticket (but accidentally bought a slightly wrong one for the exact train). One is Intentional and calculated, the other is error or mistake.

 

[kerplunker]

If there is inconsistency between the code, the destinations and date, and the reference number then it will be obvious that the ticket has been photoshopped from a real one.

Considerable difference between intention of someone deliberately falsifying a ticket, who is clearly trying to defraud and get a free ride, compared to someone who has bought a real ticket (but accidentally bought wrong one).

I see, if I'm honest I am assuming that they will know that it's not a real ticket from the Aztec code being a bust, but I'm just unsure of how they'll deal with it given the context.

== Doublepost prevention - post automatically merged: 3 Aug 2025 ==

For further context, although I'm not sure how helpful, the ticket was a screenshot from a train app, and it was a date change to the 'current' date from an old one.

As part of this, the Aztec code was invalid and hence did not scan when presented, but the reference code may be the same, I'm really worried now that once they investigate that they could find my account through the potentially same reference code as this seems very likely, and then it's sort of clear what's happened and what went wrong.

What is my best approach for this? I'm very heavily considering lawyering up or writing a pre-emptive letter to them.

 

[Sun Chariot]

I, to the best of my ability, think my record is clean regarding train travel. I have never been stopped or questioned beyond the odd fare alteration for off-peak/ peak confusion.

This is still ambiguous, as it reads as if you have - and know you have - evaded other rail fares. So...
1) How many journeys have you made with an intentionally-altered ticket, for the intent of paying less than the correct valid fare? And how many of not paying at all?
2) Over how many weeks or months did those occurrences take place?
3) From which station(s), to which station(s) and with which railway train operating company?

 

[kerplunker]

This is still ambiguous, as it reads as if you have - and know you have - evaded other rail fares. So...
1) How many journeys have you made with an intentionally-altered ticket, for the intent of paying less than the correct valid fare? And how many of not paying at all?
2) Over how many weeks or months did those occurrences take place?
3) From which station(s), to which station(s) and with which railway train operating company?

I've not done this sort of thing before. This is also the first interaction I've had with train or station staff where my details have been noted in any way. With regards to which station it was Kings Cross to Cambridge on the GTR Line.

 

[Titfield]

(1) Sending a pre-emptive letter is pointless as it is highly unlikely to be matched to your case file and you may make your position worse.
(2) Engaging a lawyer at this stage is not required. This forum usually advises engaging a lawyer when it is clear that such a move is essential based on the train operating companies response to the encounter or to the initial response you send.
(3) Forging a ticket / altering a ticket is potentially a very serious matter because it demonstrates intent. It can not be passed off as a mistake or misunderstanding.
(4) Attempts to obfuscate the issue - claiming you were given the ticket by a friend for example is more likely to result in a harsher penalty.
(5) The fact that it was the first time doesn't really assist you that much as the counter argument will always be that if you had not been caught you may have done it again.
(6) You may wish to consider the advice experienced forum member @Hadders gives in responding to letters from train operating companies. You will have to tailor your response to address the very specific issue. Do not say it was a mistake. It was a (grave) error of judgement.

 

[kerplunker]

(1) Sending a pre-emptive letter is pointless as it is highly unlikely to be matched to your case file and you may make your position worse.
(2) Engaging a lawyer at this stage is not required. This forum usually advises engaging a lawyer when it is clear that such a move is essential based on the train operating companies response to the encounter or to the initial response you send.
(3) Forging a ticket / altering a ticket is potentially a very serious matter because it demonstrates intent. It can not be passed off as a mistake or misunderstanding.
(4) Attempts to obfuscate the issue - claiming you were given the ticket by a friend for example is more likely to result in a harsher penalty.
(5) The fact that it was the first time doesn't really assist you that much as the counter argument will always be that if you had not been caught you may have done it again.
(6) You may wish to consider the advice experienced forum member @Hadders gives in responding to letters from train operating companies. You will have to tailor your response to address the very specific issue. Do not say it was a mistake. It was a (grave) error of judgement.

Hi, thank you for the comprehensive response, what is likely to come from the train company then if they suspect both point (3) and point (4) and how could I even respond to that to mitigate given the circumstances?

 

[Haywain]

the reference code may be the same, I'm really worried now that once they investigate that they could find my account through the potentially same reference code as this seems very likely and then it's sort of clear what's happened

It makes no difference. It either relates to a different ticket and shows the barcode has been changed, or it doesn't relate to a ticket at all which shows you're using a complete fake.

 

[kerplunker]

It makes no difference. It either relates to a different ticket and shows the barcode has been changed, or it doesn't relate to a ticket at all which shows you're using a complete fake.

I understand.

 

[saismee]

That's the bit I'm unsure of, it was an AI that edited it so it may have created a gibberish text for this as it did with the Aztec code regeneration or it may not have. What difference would it make?

If the reference code is untouched, then the ticket can and will be able to be searched up and found to be an incorrect date.

If it's unreadable AI gibberish, then it's blindingly obvious that it has been edited.

If it's readable but an invalid reference code, then it will still be determined to be fake because it'll likely end up being an impossible reference code (one that can't actually be generated for a ticket).

Hi, thank you for the comprehensive response, what is likely to come from the train company then if they suspect both point (3) and point (4) and how could I even respond to that to mitigate given the circumstances?

In my eyes the best outcome would be an out-of-court settlement for travelling without a valid ticket (Anytime day single price + 75 to 150 pound admin fee), but as you've intentionally forged a ticket they could choose to prosecute you under another law. You've said that you have only done this once and that you believe your record is clean, so I doubt GTR will choose to prosecute for fraud.

Keep in mind that forging a ticket is a more serious matter than travelling with none at all - you've effectively proven your intent to defraud the company.

I don't believe there will be any way to mitigate the issue in this situation. I agree with all of @Titfield's points and would suggest following point 6 especially. If this isn't your first time doing things like this (they can and will search your purchasing history), it's best to mention it now, as it could change how GTR want to proceed and the forum's advice may not apply the same.

I'm not accusing you, but there have been cases where people lie on the forum because they are embarrassed about their fare evasion.

 

[MotCO]

Is it likely the OP will be charged with fraud rather than Railway bye-laws or Regulation of Railways Act? This thread https://www.railforums.co.uk/thread...-from-kent-home-to-north-london.267595/page-3, obviously is at industrial scale, but was nonetheless convicted of fraud.

 

[kerplunker]

If the reference code is untouched then the ticket can and will be able to be searched up and found to be an incorrect date. If it's unreadable AI gibberish then it's blindingly obvious that it has been edited. If it's readable but an invalid reference code then it will still be determined to be fake because it'll likely end up being an impossible reference code (one that can't actually be generated for a ticket).


In my eyes the best outcome would be an out of court settlement for travelling without a valid ticket (Anytime day single price + 75 to 150 pound admin fee), but as you've intentionally forged a ticket they could choose to prosecute you under another law. You've said that you have only done this once and that you believe your record is clean, so I doubt GTR will choose to prosecute for fraud. Keep in mind that forging a ticket is a more serious matter than travelling with none at all - you've effectively proven your intent to defraud the company.

I don't believe there will be any way to mitigate the issue in this situation. I agree with all of @Titfield's points and would suggest following point 6 especially. If this isn't your first time doing things like this (they can and will search your purchasing history), it's best to mention it now as it could change how GTR want to proceed and the forum's advice may not apply the same. I'm not accusing you, but there have been cases where people lie on the forum because they are embarrassed about their fare evasion.

Is it likely the OP will be charged with fraud rather than Railway bye-laws or Regulation of Railways Act? This thread https://www.railforums.co.uk/threads/rail-site-manager-defrauded-£27k-with-fake-train-tickets-on-commute-from-kent-home-to-north-london.267595/page-3, obviously is at industrial scale, but was nonetheless convicted of fraud.

Yeah these two replies don't fill me with the most optimism. I'm sure my purchasing history is clean and there are many instances of me making this exact journey and buying these exact tickets, including the day after the incident on my return journey, although I'm sure that won't make much difference given the situation.

Regarding the charges, is it then best to wait for their letter and then lawyer up if there is any mention of the Fraud Act as I imagine that might be the case based on Post #14. If they ask for my side of the story, how do I explain the scenario without further incriminating myself as I imagine it's quite a legal minefield.

Thanks.

 

[Haywain]

Is it likely the OP will be charged with fraud rather than Railway bye-laws or Regulation of Railways Act?

It could happen but I would say it is unlikely unless there is evidence of this being large scale behaviour.

 

[kerplunker]

Thank god, I do hope they can see this was a stupid and ignorant moment when they approach my case, I know that I deserve a punishment or penalty for this incident but a permanent record is something else for somebody at my stage of life, I'm honestly just terrified of it ruining my future and my career after I've worked so hard to get here.

It could happen but I would say it is unlikely unless there is evidence of this being large scale behaviour.

 

[Titfield]

You will need to write a very contrite and totally honest reply making clear that you will never fail to pay the correct fare in the future.

You will need to choose your words very carefully. You must surely have known that altering a ticket was a form of fare evasion.

They may send what appears to be a very bland letter but you will have to follow the advice given above and avoid putting yourself in a poor light even though you will have to be totally honest. They will look carefully at your reply as well as what your travel record shows or suggests.

This forum has threads with some good examples of letters that have been accepted by TOCS and resulted in an out of court settlement being offered rather than the matter proceeding to court.

If you post a draft response here (when you have received the letter from the TOC) forum members will critique it and offer constructive criticism.

 

[saismee]

Regarding the charges, is it then best to wait for their letter and then lawyer up if there is any mention of the Fraud Act as I imagine that might be the case based on Post #14. If they ask for my side of the story, how do I explain the scenario without further incriminating myself as I imagine it's quite a legal minefield.

I believe they mention fraud and threaten prison time as boilerplate at the start or end of all correspondence. I agree with @Haywain saying that a fraud prosecution is unlikely. It would be more likely if you had done this on a large scale and they wanted to make an example out of you.

Yeah these two replies don't fill me with the most optimism. I'm sure my purchasing history is clean and there are many instances of me making this exact journey and buying these exact tickets, including the day after the incident on my return journey, although I'm sure that won't make much difference given the situation.

Your purchasing history won't make any difference as the crime has already been committed. You won't need to worry about this as your journey history only tends to matter in short faring/doughnutting/expired railcard cases as it's more obvious, and you've mentioned that you haven't done these.

 

[kerplunker]

You will need to write a very contrite and totally honest reply making clear that you will never fail to pay the correct fare in the future.

You will need to choose your words very carefully. You must surely have known that altering a ticket was a form of fare evasion.

They may send what appears to be a very bland letter but you will have to follow the advice given above and avoid putting yourself in a poor light even though you will have to be totally honest. They will look carefully at your reply as well as what your travel record shows or suggests.

This forum has threads with some good examples of letters that have been accepted by TOCS and resulted in an out of court settlement being offered rather than the matter proceeding to court.

If you post a draft response here (when you have received the letter from the TOC) forum members will critique it and offer constructive criticism.

I believe they mention fraud and threaten prison time as boilerplate at the start or end of all correspondence. I agree with @Haywain saying that a fraud prosecution is unlikely. It would be more likely if you had done this on a large scale and they wanted to make an example out of you.


Your purchasing history won't make any difference as the crime has already been committed. You won't need to worry about this as your journey history only tends to matter in short faring/doughnutting/expired railcard cases as it's more obvious, and you've mentioned that you haven't done these.

This makes complete sense, I can sincerely confirm this was not done on a large or industrial scale and my purchasing history makes that very clear I think, with me buying hundreds of pounds worth of tickets, some on this exact route, many of which are 2x or 3x the value of this one over the past few months with no issue. I will keep the letter writing in mind for when I respond, I think the main thing is I don't want to incriminate myself further but also want to convey all the remorse I've felt (and will feel) these past few days. I really appreciate any support when the time comes for that so thank you.

 

[John R]

This makes complete sense, I can sincerely confirm this was not done on a large or industrial scale and my purchasing history makes that very clear I think, with me buying hundreds of pounds worth of tickets, some on this exact route, many of which are 2x or 3x the value of this one over the past few months with no issue. I will keep the letter writing in mind for when I respond, I think the main thing is I don't want to incriminate myself further but also want to convey all the remorse I've felt (and will feel) these past few days. I really appreciate any support when the time comes for that so thank you.

If you've not committed any other fare evasion then you can't accidentally incriminate yourself any further if you tell the truth. As they have all the evidence they need for the one offence, it's not an issue for that one either.

 

[6Gman]

This makes complete sense, I can sincerely confirm this was not done on a large or industrial scale and my purchasing history makes that very clear I think, with me buying hundreds of pounds worth of tickets, some on this exact route, many of which are 2x or 3x the value of this one over the past few months with no issue. I will keep the letter writing in mind for when I respond, I think the main thing is I don't want to incriminate myself further but also want to convey all the remorse I've felt (and will feel) these past few days. I really appreciate any support when the time comes for that so thank you.

If this is the only time you've done something of this nature how could you incriminate yourself further?

Wait for a letter the come back here for further good advice.

 

[AlterEgo]

If this is the only time you've done something of this nature how could you incriminate yourself further?

One can make inadvertent admissions.

 

[SargeNpton]

Hi, really good question and good to point out, I, to the best of my ability, think my record is clean regarding train travel. I have never been stopped or questioned beyond the odd fare alteration for off-peak/ peak confusion. Sorry just colloquial language but yeah you're right, it's important.

I'm sure you would remember whether or not you had a clean record for train travel.

It's the sort of thing that would stick in your mind.

 

[185]

Aware some barcodes last month were doing the rounds with extra black squares added to prevent scanning. BTP took two passengers off. This is probably the same as 'scrambling' the barcode as mentioned by the OP.