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5th February 2016
02:17pm GMT

There doesn't appear to be any software fix, no way to change any parts or even a way to access the phone's memory - it is 'bricked' (rendered as useful as a brick).
“The problem occurs if the repairer changes the home button or the cable," iFixit tech expert Kyle Wiens told the Guardian.
"Following the software upgrade the phone in effect 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 told the paper that fingerprint data is protected using a 'secure enclave, which is uniquely paired to the touch ID sensor.'
This security pairing can be revalidated only by an authorised Apple service provider, effectively stopping a malicious touch ID sensor being substituted and the secure enclave breached.
So when iOS detects this pairing failing (for example if it has been serviced by an unauthorised technician or different components added) then touch ID, including Apple Pay, is disabled to make the device secure.
Apple said anyone with the Error 53 message should contact Apple Support.