Fire TV Stick owners must remain vigilant, especially when downloading new apps onto their streaming devices. It’s just been confirmed that one popular service, called Downloader, has been suspended from Amazon’s App Store, and that block has given rise to a copycat ‘scam’ app that could end up costing users their hard-earned cash. This concerning development started over the weekend when Downloader was removed from the App Store.

This service has been offering Fire TV users a way to search and side-load software for a number of years. This feature basically allows apps and services to be added to Fire devices that aren’t available via official marketplaces. However, its developer says the Downloader app has suddenly had a “temporary suspension”.

Elias Saba, who also runs the Fire TV enthusiast website AFTVnews, says his Downloader service has been blocked by a recent update that suggests it’s now a full-blown web browser.

That’s something Amazon does not allow on its App Store, with the company saying, “Amazon restricts the publication of third-party browser apps on Fire tablets and Fire TV devices.”

Saba has now submitted an update, which he hopes will end the current ban.

“Since Downloader on Fire TVs has had a built-in browser for over 9 years, I suspect the issue isn’t the browser itself, but that the app now registers itself as a browser,” Saba explained.

“I’ve submitted a v2.0.2 update for Downloader to Amazon that no longer registers itself as a browser, which matches the behaviour it previously had. I’m hopeful that Amazon will approve this version and restore Downloader in the Amazon Appstore. The update was submitted this morning, and it usually takes Amazon a few days to test and approve submissions.”

Although a normal service should soon return for fans of this app, anyone looking to install it must be on high alert. Saba says that a copycat version has now appeared online and could end up costing those tricked into installing it.

“Do NOT install the app named Downloader for Fire, Browser…,” Saba said.

“That app is a SCAM that tricks you into paying $6.99 PER WEEK. Please help get it removed by reporting it as a scam to Amazon.”

If you already have the original Downloader app on your device, don’t delete it, as you’ll lose access until it returns to the App Store.

You should also turn off “Auto Offload,” under Settings > Applications, so Downloader does not get uninstalled automatically.

If Saba is correct, Downloader should reappear on the Fire devices again this week, but we’ll wait and see.