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Some iOS users may have already encountered or heard about Error 53. It is an error found on iPhone devices which has the effect of forcing handsets with replacement display screens or home buttons to go into a boot loop after undergoing an update to their software. With that kind of effect, it was understandable for many people to label the whole thing as a bug. But Apple has since addressed the issue, and the company revealed that Error 53 is actually a security measure.
As conveyed to the Guardian, this is what an Apple spokesperson had to say about Error 53:
“We protect fingerprint data using a secure enclave, which is uniquely paired to the touch ID sensor. When iPhone is serviced by an authorized Apple service provider or Apple retail store for changes that affect the touch ID sensor, the pairing is re-validated. This check ensures the device and the iOS features related to touch ID remain secure. Without this unique pairing, a malicious touch ID sensor could be substituted, thereby gaining access to the secure enclave. When iOS detects that the pairing fails, touch ID, including Apple Pay, is disabled so the device remains secure.”
Apple’s statement above is quite technical in nature, and some can be forgiven for not having understood any of it. The iPhone maker, of course, has realized this, and has issued a supporting statement to better explain the whole thing. Error 53 is essentially a security measure to detect if the touch ID sensor on iPhone and iPad devices are matched correctly. The reason for this measure is that those with malicious intent often make use of fraudulent touch ID sensor to get unauthorized access to an iOS powered handset. Apple further advised that any user who encounters the error should contact Apple Support as soon as possible.
The latest statement from Apple is pretty reasonable, but it does not provide any ample explanation regarding why iOS devices are stuck on a boot loop when getting their software updated. Besides, if the system detect a security concern (via the Error 53 notice), should it just decline any update process so that the affected device can still function (albeit, without the touch ID sensor)? Moreover, there is that thing wherein Error 53 occurs anyway even if the affected handset has not been repaired by an unauthorized party. Apple may still have some further explaining to do.
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