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TfL wants to interview me under caution (IUC)
A TfL interview under caution (often shortened to IUC) is not a casual chat. It is a formal interview used in investigations and what you say can be relied on later. This is why it is usually a bad idea to attend unprepared.
If you have received an invitation to an IUC, the safest first step is to pause, read the letter carefully, and confirm what TfL is alleging and what stage your case is at.
What an interview under caution means
An interview under caution is used when TfL is investigating a possible offence. The interview is typically recorded and TfL may use your answers to support a decision on whether to proceed.
People often attend thinking they can “clear it up quickly”. The risk is that innocent explanations can come out poorly under pressure, or you may accidentally agree with wording that you did not intend.
Upload your letter for reviewWhy attending unprepared is risky
- What you say can be recorded and relied on later.
- Stress can lead to mistakes, contradictions, or unclear explanations.
- A rushed “apology” can be interpreted as an admission of intent.
- You may not know what evidence TfL already has.
Preparation is not about being clever. It is about understanding the allegation, the timeline, and the safest way to explain what happened.
Common reasons TfL requests an IUC
TfL can request an interview under caution for a range of situations. These often include questions about ticket validity, Railcard use, incomplete journeys, or alleged fare evasion.
- Using the wrong ticket or Railcard.
- Repeated incomplete journeys or “forgot to tap out” patterns.
- Allegations of travelling without a valid ticket.
- Inconsistent explanations given at the time of inspection.
What you should do before the interview date
- Confirm the exact letter type and any deadlines.
- Write down a clear timeline while the details are fresh.
- Keep copies of everything you have received and sent.
- Do not send a rushed written statement without thinking it through.
If court paperwork arrives later
Not every investigation results in court, but if you receive formal paperwork you must act quickly. Deadlines are strict and ignoring them can lead to conviction in your absence.
Want to confirm what stage you’re at?
Upload the TfL letter you received and a short summary of what happened. We'll confirm the likely stage and outline realistic next steps.
An interview under caution is serious. What you say can be used later. It’s usually a bad idea to attend unprepared.
Not legal advice. No outcome is guaranteed. Not affiliated with Transport for London.