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Bending Your Metrocard
By
Jen Chung
Published Aug 24, 2003
Modified Mar 6, 2008
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By
Jen Chung
Published Aug 24, 2003
Modified Mar 6, 2008
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The Times looks at how Metrocards aren't safe from thieves trying to steal fares, specifically with techniques like "bending the card" which is a far cry from ancient techniques of stealing tokens. The MTA estimates they lose $260,000 a year on card-benders, versus $5 million on turnstile jumpers. The Morning News coined a brilliant Metrocard phrase: Metrotard - A person in front of you at the subway turnstile who cant figure out how to swipe his or her subway pass. Maybe they were simply fare swiping. Oh, and the Times piece answers what's done with the discarded Metrocards that litter stations: Absolutely nothing.
Recently on Gothamist: Metrocard insurance.
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Jen Chung
Jen Chung is a former WNYC and Gothamist editor.
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Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
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