- A significant loophole in the UK rail ticket refund system, which has allowed fraudulent claims, is set to close on 1 April.
- Currently, passengers can claim refunds for unused 'anytime' or off-peak tickets up to four weeks after the intended travel date, even if they didn't use them.
- This system has been exploited by individuals who avoid ticket checks, costing the railways an estimated £40 million annually.
- Under the new regulations, refunds for flexible tickets will only be permitted up to midnight on the day before the scheduled journey.
- Exceptions will be made for passengers experiencing on-the-day disruption or other 'exceptional circumstances', allowing them to still claim a full refund.
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