Fire TV Stick users need to exercise caution due to recent developments surrounding the popular tool “Downloader.” The tool was removed from Amazon’s Appstore, leading to the emergence of a fraudulent copycat app aimed at deceiving users.
The issue arose when Downloader disappeared from Amazon’s online marketplace over the weekend. Downloader has been a long-standing tool for Fire TV owners, enabling them to search for and install apps not available through official channels. This feature has been particularly useful for accessing tools, apps unavailable in specific regions, or early software releases.
Despite its widespread use, Downloader faced a temporary suspension, as indicated by its developer, Elias Saba. The suspension was triggered by a recent update that categorized Downloader as a full web browser, contravening Amazon’s policy against third-party browsers on Fire TV devices.
Acknowledging Amazon’s restrictions on third-party browsers, Saba has addressed the issue by removing the browser identification in the latest update (v2.0.2) of the app, hoping for Amazon’s approval to reinstate it on the Appstore soon.
In the interim, users are cautioned against a fake version of Downloader targeting confused Fire TV owners. Saba emphasized that the fraudulent app, named “Downloader for Fire, Browser,” is a scam attempting to charge users $6.99 weekly. Users are advised to report this app to Amazon.
For those with the legitimate Downloader already installed, it is recommended not to uninstall it as reinstalling may not be possible until Amazon resolves the situation. Additionally, users should disable Auto Offload in Settings to prevent automatic removal of the app.
Pending Amazon’s approval of the fix, Downloader may become available again on Fire TV devices later in the week. Users are advised to stay vigilant and monitor the situation closely.
