iPhone locked to unofficial repairs: in new class action arrival for Apple

A Seattle law firm is preparing to file a formal complaint against Apple because of the iOS updates that may affect the performance of the iPhone as a result of integrated hardware tampering. It was striking the specific case of Touch ID which, if replaced by third-party repairs entities with a version of the unofficial sensor, can lead to permanent brick the device.

Lawyers PVCA companies are inviting any guests who have found the elusive Error 53 to contact them, but they are not alone. A London lawyer believes that there are circumstances to file a complaint against the Cupertino company for alleged violation of the right of consumers in the United Kingdom. In contrast Apple claims that the now famous Error 53 is a safety feature designed to secure the data contained on Touch ID.

"Error 53 is the result of security controls designed to protect our customers," he stated the company due to a spokesman. "IOS checks that the Touch ID sensor of your iPhone or iPad will properly match the other components of the device. If the operating system finds a mismatch control fails and Touch ID is disabled, as well as the use of Apple Pay". A necessary security measure, to said Apple, to prevent it being installed a fraudulent fingerprint sensor face to the theft of sensitive user data.

Although the premise of Apple actually seem plausible, the PCVA lawyers believe there is a case to take to court the company: "We believe that in this way Apple can intentionally force their customers to choose the official repair services, which cost much more than the third-party repair shops ". And it is of the same opinion Richard Colbey, London lawyer who claims that Apple may be guilty of "criminal damage."

"It is difficult to consider that something stops working in this way can be considered quality, with durability that is one of its key factors," said Colbey. "The law states: 'He is guilty of a crime that person who without lawful justification breaks or damages any property belonging to another with the intention of breaking and damaging the property in question."

According to Apple's proclamations who receives the Error 53 should contact the official Apple Support. But the company has not yet said how it intends to resolve the issue with the exception of replacing the device out of warranty, then for a fee. Anyone who wants to participate in the class-action PCVA can do it in the official website. It is not uncommon that Apple is involved in formal complaints like that, with those who often fall into oblivion soon.