Fire TV Stick users need to exercise caution currently, especially when adding new applications to their devices. Amazon recently removed the popular tool “Downloader” from its Appstore, leaving room for a fraudulent copycat app that aims to defraud users.
The issue began when Downloader vanished from Amazon’s online marketplace over the weekend. For nearly a decade, Downloader has been a go-to tool for Fire TV owners to find and install apps not available through official channels, making it useful for accessing unofficial apps or early software versions.
Despite its widespread use, Downloader faced a temporary suspension due to a recent update that flagged it as a web browser, which goes against Amazon’s policy of disallowing third-party browsers on Fire TV devices. Elias Saba, the developer of Downloader and the owner of the AFTVnews website, clarified this issue and promptly released an update (v2.0.2) to rectify the browser identification problem.
While awaiting Amazon’s approval for the fix, Saba cautioned users about a fake version of Downloader circulating, which tricks users into a weekly payment of $6.99. He advised users not to install this fraudulent app and to report it to Amazon if encountered.
For existing Downloader users, Saba recommended not uninstalling the legitimate app, as it might not be reinstallable until Amazon restores it. Additionally, users were advised to disable Auto Offload in the device settings to prevent automatic removal of the app.
If Amazon greenlights the fix, Downloader could make a comeback on Fire TV devices later in the week, subject to ongoing developments.
