Fire TV Stick users need to exercise caution when adding new apps to their devices. The popular tool “Downloader” has been removed from Amazon’s Appstore, paving the way for a fraudulent copycat app aimed at scamming users.
The disappearance of Downloader from Amazon’s marketplace came to light over the weekend. For nearly a decade, Downloader has enabled Fire TV owners to search for and install apps not found in official stores, offering access to tools, applications unavailable in certain regions, or pre-release software.
Despite its widespread use, the app faced a temporary suspension due to a recent update that labeled it as a web browser. Amazon prohibits third-party browsers on Fire TV, leading to the app’s removal.
Elias Saba, the developer of Downloader and owner of the Fire TV site AFTVnews, clarified that the app’s identification as a browser caused the issue, not its core functionality. A new update has been released to address this, with hopes of reinstating the app on the Appstore soon.
While awaiting approval, users are advised to beware of a fake Downloader app attempting to swindle Fire TV owners by charging a weekly fee. Saba emphasized not to install this fraudulent app and to report it to Amazon if encountered.
For users with the genuine Downloader already installed, it is recommended not to uninstall it as reinstallation may not be possible until Amazon resolves the situation. Additionally, disabling Auto Offload in Settings can prevent the app from being automatically removed.
If the fix is approved, Downloader could make a comeback to Fire TV devices in the coming week, necessitating vigilance from users to monitor the situation closely.