ERROR 53: Apple’s iOS ‘error’ is actually a strong security feature

The error is generated by security checks created to protect its customers, according to Apple. This makes the new program beneficial to both Apple and customers as it will help Apple sell new phones and let customers save more money on an updated device. Hundreds of users have taken to Apple’s Support Communities forum and other online iPhone discussion areas to express their frustrations.

Apple is gearing up to launch a pair of new retail initiatives centered around the iPhone: an upgraded iPhone trade-in program for iPhones with damaged screens, cameras, or buttons, and a new program that allows Apple Retail Stores to install screen protectors on iPhones, 9to5Mac reports.

Kyle Wiens, administrator of the popular iFixit.com fix site, says “Error 53” has played out to become a major issue. Error 53 is a serial iPhone killer. “The problem occurs if a repairer changes the Home button or the cable”, he says. Apple hopes that with more leeway, applicable only to iPhone 5 and later models, more people will upgrade to new iPhones. “I am not even sure these third-party outfits even know this is a potential problem”. The company has even addressed solutions for jailbroken devices, but does not officially address Error 53 in any way. If the check fails, “Touch ID, including for Apple Pay use, is disabled”.

“iOS checks that the Touch ID sensor in your iPhone or iPad correctly matches your device’s other components”.

The security feature is an added layer that Apple has provided in order to safeguard the user’s data on it. A hacker can get past the Touch ID fingerprint by simply replacing the sensor/home button on the device.

Apple is serious about customer security, the company said in a prepared statement.

According to the details shared by an Apple spokeswoman with The Guardian, the unusual “Error 53” message shows up on unofficially-repaired iPhone 6 handsets after an iOS update because the repairs invalidate the pairing of the Touch ID sensor with a Secure Enclave. For some reason, however, Error 53 isn’t one of them.