Tom Tom XL IQ Routes Displaying white cross in red

I have had a TOM TOM XL IQ Routes Southern Africa for quite a while. (Still have the original box) Everything was working fine... Until I tried to upgrade the maps. Device shut down and now its displaying a flashing white x in a red circle. After extensive research on the internet I have found literally hundreds of complaints regarding the same issue. There seems to be no cure for this problem. The only available recourse seems to be to buy a new device. Surely if there are such a lot of people with the same issue they should be held accountable. the UK helpline suggested some ways to fix this issue but nothing works!<br> I am a desperate rep and don't have funds to buy a new one. Please help