Apple Admits Mistake for ‘Error 53’ iPhone Bricking, Offers Fix - Digits - WSJ

Check the full article for restoration and reimbursement links, if you encountered Error 53

"The Error 53 message started appearing on a number of iPhones after a new version of the iOS operating system landed on devices last month. If the update determined that the fingerprint sensor was installed outside of Apple, the Error 53 message appeared and locked the phone owners out of their devices.

The whole thing was a mistake, Apple said in a statement on Thursday. “We apologize for any inconvenience, this was designed to be a factory test and was not intended to affect customers,” Apple said.

Previously, Apple said that Error 53 “is necessary to protect your device and prevent a fraudulent Touch ID sensor from being used.”"

Apple Admits Mistake for ‘Error 53’ iPhone Bricking, Offers Fix - Digits - WSJ