London Mobilizes Support After Oyster Account Error

London Oyster cards unexpectedly unlinked from accounts, showing as registered elsewhere

2026-03-16, Moovit News Team

Oyster Card Unlinks From Accounts in System Error

Some London transit riders can't access their Oyster cards after the payment cards unexpectedly unlinked from user accounts, transit officials said. The cards now show as registered to different accounts when riders attempt to relink them. Officials haven't said how many riders are affected or what caused the unlinking issue.
London Underground Oyster card reader at ticket gate with contactless payment terminal in foreground, showing blue circular reader design

Account Registration System Blocks Relinking

The problem prevents affected riders from managing their Oyster cards through their online accounts, according to the transit agency. When users try to relink their cards, the system indicates the cards are already registered to another account. Officials didn't provide details about whether the cards remain functional for travel or if only account access is affected. The issue appears related to the account registration database rather than the cards themselves.

Phone Support Available During Extended Hours

The Oyster team is handling the unlinking issues through phone support at 0343 222 1234, officials said. Support staff are available between 08:00 and 20:00 to assist affected riders. Officials didn't specify whether the issue can be resolved during a single call or if riders need to take additional steps. The agency hasn't said whether online account access will be restored or if phone support remains the only resolution method.

Timeline for System Fix Not Announced

Officials haven't provided a timeline for when the account unlinking problem will be resolved through system updates. The agency didn't say whether technical staff are working on a database fix or if each case requires individual manual intervention. Whether the issue affects newly registered cards or long-standing accounts wasn't specified in available information.

Riders Should Contact Support for Resolution

Affected riders need to contact the Oyster support team directly to regain account access to their cards. Officials said phone support during business hours remains the primary resolution method until the system issue is addressed. Moovit provides real-time updates for London transit services and trip planning across the city's transport network.