Apple’s iPhone Error 53

You are likely to have heard of Error 53, hopefully you haven’t encountered it yourself but a lot of people who have downloaded iOS 9 have experienced this error.

The error will make the device completely unusable and occurs if the devices Touch ID sensor or screen has been replaced or repaired by an unauthorised third party technician.

Apple has stated that this is a security feature and not a bug, which makes sense as Apple are concerned about unauthorised people tapping into the data secured by Touch ID so have designed the device to shut down when a disturbance is detected.

However, this has caused a massive blowback on Apple as they give users no warnings regarding the shutdown and no cautions telling users that they can only get their devices fixed by the Apple Store and authorised repairers.

Apple has stated,

"We take customer security very seriously and Error 53 is the result of security checks designed to protect our customers. iOS checks that the Touch ID sensor in your iPhone or iPad correctly matches your device's other components.”

“If iOS finds a mismatch, the check fails and Touch ID, including for Apple Pay use, is disabled."

"This security measure is necessary to protect your device and prevent a fraudulent Touch ID sensor from being used. If a customer encounters Error 53, we encourage them to contact Apple Support."

Of course, this warning comes a little too late for anyone who has already encountered the error or have already had their devices fixed by an unauthorised party.

Apple is now facing quite a few legal hurdles in the future with law firms already attempting to build a class action lawsuit against Apple, claiming that their actions violate consumer protection laws.

With all this brewing, we are sure this isn’t the last we will hear about Error 53 and we expect Apple will respond to the situation very soon so stay tuned.