Fire TV Stick users are advised to exercise caution when adding new applications to their devices as a popular tool, “Downloader,” has been removed from Amazon’s Appstore. This removal has paved the way for a fraudulent copycat app aimed at defrauding users.
The disappearance of Downloader from Amazon’s online marketplace came to light over the weekend. Downloader has been a long-standing tool, enabling Fire TV owners to search for and install apps not found in official app stores.
Despite its widespread use, Downloader faced a temporary suspension due to an update that categorized it as a full web browser, violating Amazon’s policy against third-party browsers on Fire TV devices. The developer, Elias Saba, mentioned that Amazon flagged Downloader for this reason.
To address the issue, Saba released an update (v2.0.2) removing the browser identification, in hopes of reinstating the app on the Appstore soon. Meanwhile, users are warned about a fake version of Downloader attempting to deceive Fire TV owners into a weekly payment scam.
Saba advises users not to install the fraudulent app and to report it to Amazon. Those with the legitimate Downloader installed should avoid deleting it, as reinstallation may not be possible until Amazon resolves the situation. If the fix is approved, Downloader could reappear on Fire TV devices later in the week, pending Amazon’s decision.