Trainspotters were hired by train companies to spy on the conductors of each line in an attempt to make sure that the companies received all funds due to them. Some conductors were unscrupulous and would pocket the fares, or fail to punch train tickets, thereby allowing passengers to ride for free or at a discounted rate, which caused the train companies to lose money. Trainspotters quickly fell out of fashion when it became known that they were working for the train companies. Conductors would watch their passengers carefully, trying to rout the trainspotters.