Fire TV Stick users are advised to be cautious when adding new apps to their devices due to a recent development involving the popular tool “Downloader.” The tool was removed from Amazon’s Appstore, paving the way for a fraudulent copycat app aimed at defrauding users.
The situation arose when Downloader disappeared from Amazon’s online marketplace over the weekend, sparking concerns among users who have relied on it for nearly a decade to access apps not found in official marketplaces.
Despite its long-standing popularity, Downloader faced a temporary suspension after Amazon identified it as a web browser, violating the platform’s policy against third-party browsers on Fire TV devices. The app’s developer, Elias Saba, is addressing this issue by removing the browser functionality in an update, hoping for Amazon’s approval to reinstate the app soon.
Meanwhile, users are warned about a fake version of Downloader that attempts to deceive Fire TV owners into paying a weekly fee. Saba emphasized the importance of not installing this scam app and reporting it to Amazon if encountered.
For existing Downloader users, it is advised not to uninstall the legitimate app as reinstallation may not be possible until Amazon resolves the issue. Users should also disable Auto Offload to prevent automatic removal of the app.
If Amazon greenlights the necessary changes, Downloader could make a comeback to Fire TV devices in the coming days, but users are advised to stay vigilant throughout this process.
