Fire TV Stick users need to exercise caution when adding new apps to their devices due to a recent development. The popular tool “Downloader” has been removed from Amazon’s Appstore, paving the way for a fraudulent copycat app aimed at defrauding users.
The disappearance of Downloader from Amazon’s online marketplace came to light over the weekend, causing concern among Fire TV owners. Downloader, which has been in use for almost a decade, allowed users to search for and install apps not found in official stores.
Despite its widespread popularity, Downloader faced a temporary suspension due to a recent update that categorized it as a web browser, violating Amazon’s policy against third-party browsers on Fire TV devices. The developer, Elias Saba, attributed this issue to the app’s self-identification as a browser in the update.
To address this, Saba released an update, v2.0.2, that removes the browser registration, aiming for Amazon’s approval to reinstate the app in the Appstore shortly. Meanwhile, a fake version of Downloader has emerged, attempting to deceive Fire TV users into paying a weekly fee.
Saba cautioned users against installing the fake app and advised reporting it to Amazon. Users with the genuine Downloader installed should refrain from deleting it, as reinstalling it would not be possible until Amazon resolves the situation. Additionally, users are advised to disable Auto Offload to prevent the app’s automatic removal.
Pending Amazon’s approval of the fix, Downloader may become available on Fire TV devices again in the coming week, with users advised to stay vigilant.