Fire TV Stick users should exercise caution when installing new apps on their devices due to a recent development. The popular tool known as “Downloader” has been removed from Amazon’s Appstore, leading to the emergence of a fraudulent copycat app aimed at scamming users. The disappearance of Downloader from Amazon’s marketplace occurred unexpectedly over the weekend.
Downloader has been a long-standing tool, serving Fire TV owners for almost a decade by enabling them to search for and install apps not found in official stores. This feature has been particularly useful for accessing tools and applications that are unavailable in specific regions or accessing pre-released software versions.
Despite its widespread usage, Downloader faced a temporary suspension, as stated by its developer, Elias Saba. The suspension was triggered by a recent update that categorized Downloader as a full web browser, violating Amazon’s policy against third-party browsers on Fire TV devices.
Acknowledging Amazon’s restriction on third-party browsers, Saba promptly addressed the issue by removing the browser functionality in the latest update (v2.0.2) of Downloader. He anticipates Amazon’s approval to reinstate the app in the Appstore soon.
During this interim period, users are advised to steer clear of a fake version of Downloader circulating, which attempts to deceive Fire TV owners into a weekly payment of $6.99. Saba urges users to report this fraudulent app to Amazon.
For existing users of Downloader, it is recommended not to uninstall the legitimate app, as reinstalling it will be impossible until Amazon restores it. Additionally, users should disable Auto Offload in the device settings to prevent automatic removal of the app.
Pending Amazon’s approval of the fix, Downloader could make a comeback on Fire TV devices later in the week, necessitating users to remain vigilant throughout the process.