Fire TV Stick users need to exercise caution during app installations due to a recent development. The popular tool “Downloader” has been removed from Amazon’s Appstore, creating an opportunity for a fraudulent copycat app that aims to deceive users into monetary losses.
The situation arose when Downloader suddenly vanished from Amazon’s platform over the weekend. For nearly a decade, Downloader has been instrumental for Fire TV owners in accessing and installing apps not found on official platforms.
Despite its widespread use, Downloader faced a temporary suspension as a result of an update that categorized it as a web browser, contravening Amazon’s policy against third-party browsers on Fire TV devices. Elias Saba, the developer and operator of AFTVnews, clarified the issue, stating that Downloader’s latest version mistakenly identified itself as a browser. Saba promptly rectified this in the v2.0.2 update, awaiting Amazon’s approval to reinstate the app.
Meanwhile, users have been cautioned about a fake version of Downloader attempting to deceive Fire TV owners by charging a weekly fee. Saba advised against installing this fraudulent app and urged users to report it to Amazon. Users with the legitimate Downloader installed are advised not to uninstall it, as it may not be reinstallable until Amazon resolves the issue. Additionally, users are instructed to disable Auto Offload to prevent the app from being removed automatically.
If the fix is approved by Amazon, Downloader could be back on Fire TV devices soon, pending vigilance from users to ensure a safe reinstallation process.