Fire TV Stick users should exercise caution during app installations as a popular tool called “Downloader” has been removed from Amazon’s Appstore, leaving room for a fraudulent copycat app aiming to defraud users. The disappearance of Downloader, which had been available for almost a decade, was a sudden development over the weekend. The tool was utilized by Fire TV owners to access and install apps not found on official platforms, useful for acquiring tools or applications unavailable in specific regions or early software versions.

Elias Saba, the developer of Downloader and owner of the Fire TV site AFTVnews, disclosed that Amazon suspended the app temporarily due to an update that flagged it as a full web browser. Amazon prohibits third-party browsers on Fire TV devices, prompting the removal. Saba has rectified this issue in the v2.0.2 update by eliminating the browser registration, anticipating Amazon’s approval for the app’s reinstatement.

Meanwhile, a deceptive version of Downloader has emerged, attempting to deceive Fire TV users into making weekly payments. Saba warned against installing this fake app and advised reporting it to Amazon. Users with the authentic Downloader installed should not uninstall it, as they may not reinstall it until Amazon resolves the situation. Additionally, disabling Auto Offload is recommended to prevent automatic removal of the app.

If Amazon greenlights the fix, Downloader may return to Fire TV devices later in the week, necessitating users to monitor the situation closely.