Fire TV Stick users are being urged to exercise caution following the temporary suspension of the popular 'Downloader' app from Amazon's Appstore. The removal has created an opportunity for scammers, with a fake copycat app now targeting unsuspecting users.
The legitimate Downloader app, which has been available for nearly a decade, allows users to sideload apps not found in official marketplaces. However, a recent update caused Amazon to flag it as a full web browser, which is prohibited on Fire TV devices. Developer Elias Saba confirmed the suspension is temporary, and a fix has been submitted for approval.
Saba, who also runs AFTVnews, warned users about a fraudulent app named 'Downloader for Fire, Browser' that demands a $6.99 weekly payment. 'That app is a SCAM that tricks you into paying $6.99 per week,' he said, urging users to report it to Amazon.
Users who already have the legitimate Downloader installed are advised not to delete it, as reinstallation will be impossible until Amazon restores it. Additionally, disabling Auto Offload in Settings > Applications can prevent the device from automatically removing the app.
Amazon stated that it restricts third-party browsers on Fire TV and Fire tablet devices. Saba believes the issue arose from the app newly identifying itself as a browser, not from its functionality. His v2.0.2 update removes this registration, and he hopes for approval within days.
