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A new "hack" has surfaced on social media that can allegedly turn a two-trip MetroCard into an unlimited pass.
Explained by way of a quasi-catchy hip-hop track, a musician called The Blue Hundreds has broken down exactly how the trick works. First, get yourself an empty two-trip MetroCard and swipe it at the turnstile. Next, bend the bottom right corner of the card towards the magnetic strip and swipe the card two consecutive times. Unbend the card, swipe two more times, and on the second swipe, the machine will let you pass.
The hack dates back to the two-trip card's debut in the '90s, according to the New York Daily News. The MTA is aware of the glitch in the system but has never issued a fix, despite the trick being publicized for nearly two decades. It's also very, very difficult to track down a two-trip card—you can't buy one at a subway kiosk. The special cards are only distributed through hospitals and various social service agencies.
While the bendy hack isn't anything new, the track is, and we're all for transit-inspired tunes (so long as they're not performed by Linkin Park).
It's important to note that this practice is illegal and could get a commuter into trouble with the law if they're busted pulling it off. So if you see someone bending their MetroCard and gumming up a turnstile, just swipe them on through.
"Despite the illegal video tutorial, it is still very difficult to manipulate the card to steal the extra trip." an MTA spokesperson said in an email. "The issue will be completely eliminated when the new fare payment system is introduced."
This article was updated to include a statement from the MTA.