A fake advert claiming that Apple users can make their iPhones waterproof by upgrading the device’s software has reportedly tricked users into breaking their phones.

The misleading rumour has circulated on social networks accompanied by a mocked-up advert that closely resembles Apple’s official marketing.

“Update to iOS 7 and become waterproof” claims the ad (see below) explaining that “In an emergency, a smart-switch will shut off the phone’s power supply and corresponding components to prevent any damage to your iPhone’s delicate circuitry.”

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Users who believed the advert reportedly upgraded their iPhones and dunked the devices to test the feature, only to find that they had broken the expensive gadgets.

Some have taken to Twitter to vent their displeasure at being tricked. One user wrote "Ok whoever said IOS7 is waterproof GO F*** YOURSELF".

The iOS 7 update was released by Apple last week and introduces many new features and a visual overhaul, but does not make iPhones waterproof.

Apple announced yesterday that more than 200 million users had upgraded to iOS 7, and that the new iPhone 5s and 5c had sold a record-breaking 9 million units during the launch weekend.

The spoof advert reportedly originated on the notorious online forum 4chan, which regularly undertakes campaigns that hijack social media in order to trick the public.

One hoax from 2012 involved members of the forum hacking the official Twitter account of 'Entertainment Tonight' and broadcasting a message that popstar Justin Bieber has been diagnosed with cancer.

The message encouraged fans to shave their heads in support, with the the hashtag #BaldforBieber used to spread the hoax.