On subject of fare dodging, my son, who has an Oyster card, boarded a bus recently and swiped his card as usual. Apparently it didn't work though there was nothing wrong with his card so it must have been the equipment. An Inspector got on and issued him with a £25 fine and took his photo. Said it was his responsibility even if there was a fault with the equipment. He probably should have bought a ticket off the driver but didn't think of it.
The card is certainly working on station scanners.
Wouldn't mind but I will have to pay the fine as he has no money and I pay for his Oyster card and auto top-up.
Anyone had any experience of appealing such a situation?