New Oyster refund policy
 

While we were all observing Covid protocols and staying home, TfL was changing Oyster refund protocol:

https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/ne...fund-shake-up/

Basically, the 5GBP deposit is automatically credited back to Oyster card on one year anniversary of purchase.
This probably doesn't affect too many (with popularity of phone and credit/debit card payments,) but it might be useful for some.
And it only affects cards purchased after 23 Feb 2020.