Fire TV Stick users should exercise caution when installing new apps on their devices, as the popular tool “Downloader” has been removed from Amazon’s Appstore, leaving room for a potentially harmful copycat scam app. The disappearance of Downloader from the online marketplace raised concerns over the weekend.
Downloader, which has been in use for nearly a decade, allowed Fire TV owners to search for and install apps not found in official marketplaces. This feature was particularly useful for accessing tools, applications unavailable in certain regions, or pre-release software versions.
Despite its widespread popularity, Downloader faced a temporary suspension due to an update that classified it as a full web browser. Amazon prohibits third-party browsers on Fire TV devices, prompting the app’s removal.
Elias Saba, the developer of Downloader and operator of the Fire TV website AFTVnews, clarified that the issue arose from the app being identified as a browser. He has released an update to rectify this and hopes Amazon will reinstate the app soon.
In the meantime, Saba warned users about a fake version of Downloader that attempts to deceive Fire TV owners into paying a subscription fee. He advised users not to install this fraudulent app and to report it to Amazon.
For those with the legitimate Downloader already installed, Saba recommends not deleting it, as reinstallation may not be possible until Amazon resolves the situation. Users are also advised to disable the Auto Offload feature to prevent the app from being automatically removed.
If Amazon approves the update, Downloader could make a return to Fire TV devices later in the week, but users are advised to stay vigilant.