Class-action lawsuit filed against Apple over 'Error 53' failed iPhone security checks

Touch ID sensors on multiple iPhones
Touch ID sensors on multiple iPhones (Image credit: iMore)

A Seattle-based lawfirm, Pfau Cochran Vertetis Amala PLLC (PCVA), has filed a class-action lawsuit with the Northern California U.S. District Court against Apple over the "Error 53" security issue. "Error 53" crops up when installing a software update on an iPhone which has had its Touch ID Home button repaired, which Apple says is the result of security checks in iOS 9. However, the attorneys at PCVA don't buy that explanation.

From PCVA:

"The first objective is to get all the affected iPhone customers re-outfitted with working phones, and without the overwhelming costs that thousands of people are facing right now with error 53 codes and bricked phones," said Darrell Cochran, lead attorney for the class action lawsuit. "That will provide immediate relief to the consumers and, in the end, it will also help Apple," Cochran said.

As we've previously noted, "Error 53" seems to be a new issue that cropped up after iOS 9. Despite initial reports, the error can in fact affect both third-party and official Apple repairs. However, while Apple can swap out your current device for a new one, third-party repair shops cannot.

At this time, it's unclear how many people have been affected by "Error 53". Additionally, the lawsuit still needs to be granted class-action status.

Source: Pfau Cochran Vertetis Amala PLLC

Joseph Keller

Joseph Keller is the former Editor in Chief of iMore. An Apple user for almost 20 years, he spends his time learning the ins and outs of iOS and macOS, always finding ways of getting the most out of his iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and Mac.