According to the boss iFixit, the iPhone has an "error 53" feature tucked inside which locks the device if certain parts haven't been repaired by Apple or one of its official partners.

The error blocks users of the iPhone 6 when they attempt to update their device after the repair has been made.

Tech boss of iFixit, Kyle Wiens told The Guardian this is causing a huge problem for iPhone fans.

"The problem occurs if the repairer changes the home button or the cable." He said.

"Following the software upgrade the phone checks to make sure it is still using the original components, and if it isn't, it simply locks out the phone.

"There is no warning, and there’s no way that I know of to bring it back to life."

Apple fans have clearly been left upset by this Error with Weins stating that thousands of iPhone users have visited the "error 53" page on iFixIt's website.

However, Apple has responded to the criticism explaining why it wants certain parts repaired officially.

The tech firm says that they protect fingerprint data using a secure enclave, which is uniquely paired to the Touch ID sensor.

When iPhone is serviced by an authorised 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.With more of us now using the fingerprint sensor for online banking and secure payments through Apple Pay, the reason behind the error 53 seems clear.

Apple regards its Touch ID and Apple Pay service as one of the most secure in the world and is clearly concerned about third party, unofficial, repairs leaving iPhone users vulnerable to cyber crime.

A spokesperson told Daily Star Online: "We take customer security very seriously and Error 53 is the result of security checks designed to protect our customers. iOS checks that the Touch ID sensor in your iPhone or iPad correctly matches your device’s other components.

"If iOS finds a mismatch, the check fails and Touch ID, including for Apple Pay use, is disabled.

"This security measure is necessary to protect your device and prevent a fraudulent Touch ID sensor from being used. If a customer encounters Error 53, we encourage them to contact Apple Support."

Stopping iPhones from working may seem extreme but it's the only way Apple can keep users personal details totally secure.

Apple is also keen to point out that users can take their devices into any authorised center for repair and not just Apple Stores.

The US firm states: "The best way for customers to obtain a repair or service for iPhone is to call Apple, or visit an Apple Retail Store or an Apple Authorised Service Provider."

(dailystar.co.uk)