Amazon Now Blocking 3rd Party Apps on Firestick/Fire TV

tampammm · 2025-06-25T00:00:37.016Z

Yep, that’s why they’re converting to the Vega OS for all their new devices.

Avid08 · 2025-06-25T07:56:47.274Z

A bit more info.

Avid08 · 2025-06-25T08:51:08.912Z

Why would you want to use an app that can use your Internet connection for malicious intent.

github.com/fmhy/edit

Malicious code in Flix Vision app

opened 12:58AM - 12 Jan 25 UTC

closed 09:52PM - 14 Jan 25 UTC

lineredux

### Type Bad sites ### Add additional context Decompilation and source …code analysis was performed on app version v3.0.1r, retrieved from the official source that is provided on FMHY (https://linktr.ee/flixvision), using [jadx](https://github.com/skylot/jadx). A few months ago, [users reported on Reddit](https://www.reddit.com/r/firetvstick/comments/1f7ywx3/flix_vision_293_apk_has_potential/) that the Flix Vision app was making unsolicited network requests (signs of internet sharing/botnet). Being a reverse engineer myself, I decided to look into the latest version of the app and check for potential malicious code. I have discovered that the Flix Vision app has code that, at the developer's discretion, can remotely enable an internet-sharing SDK called TraffMonetizer that runs in the background. This turns the users of the Flix Vision app into exit nodes for residential proxy services that can perform web scraping and other malicious/illegal activities [1](https://www.trendmicro.com/vinfo/us/security/news/vulnerabilities-and-exploits/how-residential-proxies-and-captcha-solving-services-become-agents-of-abuse),[2](https://www.orangecyberdefense.com/be/blog/unveiling-the-depths-of-residential-proxies-providers), using the user's internet connection, without their consent or knowledge. The developers of Flix Vision get revenue from TraffMonetizer for selling user's internet connections. The following is the flow: On app start and in the background, a configuration file is retrieved which has the base settings for Flix Vision. There is a primary and backup URL (t.ly/gcCVh, github.com/fvision8/publish/releases/download/12/conf.json). ![vmware_C8iTyNOmZD](https://github.com/user-attachments/assets/7fd877b7-d65c-41f6-8e06-c2f59c84831e) ![vmware_2VVYIGLN7f](https://github.com/user-attachments/assets/66e32207-d9af-4e4b-8716-daec699aef01) As of 1/11/2025, the JSON file returns the following: ![vmware_QepRzUBSIx](https://github.com/user-attachments/assets/3b06ef09-c428-46a7-96a2-8132bc4c3dba) Take note of the traff_sd value. Once retrieval is complete, parseRemoteConfig is called. At its core, it's nothing special, but there's this code that checks the traff_sd boolean and sets it accordingly in pref_traff_1. It also initializes a new package with a key if it's true, and stops if it is false. What is this "hy1" package? ![vmware_84jpn0QwyI](https://github.com/user-attachments/assets/c45f6134-7953-4288-bcd3-9ac50a44ceb0) Looking into the package, it is initializing the TraffMonetizer SDK. ![vmware_b19j1KyIQ4](https://github.com/user-attachments/assets/ed18f2b5-71c1-4bbf-b9f2-cef17fd5fe78) Per [TraffMonetizer](https://traffmonetizer.com/for-developers/): > After integrating our SDK your free users will be sharing a tiny portion of their Internet bandwidth with our network (you can adjust the maximum shared traffic in your dashboard) - and we will pay you for this traffic. This isn't the first time an Android app has been (mis)used for this purpose, but in some cases the app asks for consent. Flix Vision clearly does not. I would recommend removing Flix Vision from the FMHY directory https://fmhy.net/android-iosguide#android-streaming, or at the least flagging a warning for this code being present as there are a number of users that may have installed this app on their Android TV device, especially as it was spread pretty widely on YouTube and various sources.

woodking916 · 2025-06-25T14:12:43.815Z

I never did the NVidia Shield just cause was older hardware but always wanted something better than the FIrestick Cube so I took the plunge with the new BuzzTV. Has some UI kinks as a newer device but the performance is top notch - albeit it is expensive but also know none of this mainstream stuff is going to affect me now so happy with that.

Miki · 2025-06-25T14:36:18.260Z

Happy anniversary @woodking916 . Have a buffer free day.

sktn77a · 2025-06-25T14:36:34.075Z

Back to the original topic, I don’t think Amazon is (presently) intending on blocking ALL third party apps. The only ones they have blocked recently are FlixVision and LiveNetTV. Both of these apps use user resource sharing and this is what Amazon is blocking. I’m not sure of Amazon’s reasoning behind blocking these apps but they are of highly questionable provenance.

EDIT: I just tried FlixVision 3.0.0r as suggested above and Amazon does not appear to be blocking it (Maybe this version is pre user resource sharing)? I does display the upgrade screen on startup but just say “Later” and continue with 3.0.0r. Cant get any direct streams, though, and the embedded links don’t appear to work.
Unfortunately, this is not an option with LiveNetTV - you are locked into upgrading when you start up the program.

Wardylfc20 · 2025-06-25T14:36:53.487Z

What one would you say is the better box out of them? Thanks

Avid08 · 2025-06-25T14:46:07.457Z

I haven’t owned any of them but If I had no other choice I would pick the first one. It has decent specs, decent reviews and I have seen it recommended of Reddit by shield owners and it has more codec support than the shield.

Wardylfc20 · 2025-06-25T14:58:24.716Z

Oh okay thanks for that. I’ll have a look in to this one https://a.aliexpress.com/_EyUpsZu

BigDave · 2025-06-25T15:05:07.901Z

I’ve had Android 14 on my Samsung A9+ tablet and it was hard to work with. Apps like official Tubi would not even show up on home screen. Tablet has just upgraded to Android 15 and Tubi showed up. Haven’t had time for complete assessment of 15 but blocking apps is NOT decreasing on Google either.

YouTube bloggers love to promote Amazon Fire and may (rightly so) have to answer their subscribers complaints of why they recommended their purcha$e.

Amazon fire defenders: Be careful what you wish for, you may just get it!

Avid08 · 2025-06-25T15:39:04.221Z

I don’t use certified OS devices so I don’t really experience the issues that these types of devices have tbh.
If ever I have to use an official streaming app which is rare I just install on my TV.
I do have a tablet that has been updated to android 15 but I just use that to watch content on airline journeys.
All the apps I use I have added to my Home Screen without issue tbh.

Anth · 2025-06-25T15:52:16.111Z

What @Avid08 said as it plays all video and audio codecs

BigDave · 2025-06-25T17:39:31.338Z

My apologies @Avid08 as I went on a rant about Amazon and my disdain for Amazon’s control with Fire OS. @Anth list above, #1 device operates on Android 14 which I don’t like. 15 seems to correct many issues.
I also do not share the trust many YouTube gurus have that Amazon will never change older devices after Vega is fully introduced. Rant Rant Rant. Must be this Heat Wave affecting my simple brain.

Angus09 · 2025-06-25T18:05:27.686Z

I have all 3 types of ONN. No issues with either one. My family has all transitioned from the fire sticks.

Mslea · 2025-06-25T20:08:28.653Z

Hi @BigDave

I agree, but will continue to use my 4K Max until I can’t. I like the firestick remote and navigation features better. I have and use the ONN 4K Pro as well. I still favor the firestick over the ONN box. I’m a creature of habit. I started out using the firestick, so I’ve grown very comfortable with its features.

Paddyboy57 · 2025-06-25T22:48:44.126Z

Must be ONN box I did same

terry11 · 2025-06-26T10:47:29.219Z

I hope Nvidia Shield does not go this way!!!
Terry K

BertFegg · 2025-06-26T18:34:43.391Z

A few things:
I have experienced the 3rd party apps being disabled issue with Firestick and am looking to move to a different device. I trust Troy and am looking for his guidance (and I am also currently struggling with medical issues that make concentrating difficult so looking for a simple answer as to what device to get to replace Firestick).

I am an Insider and tried to become a patron to support Troy’s work and to watch review of “Most Powerful Android TV Box First Impressions” but have not been able to become a patron. I have read all the posts about it and tried every suggestion (would be great if someone posted actual screen shots of what I am looking for as none of the directions work for me). I have also tried several browsers. The closest I get is to a “subscribe” area that says no products available. Or…how about a simple link to become a patron?
Have also looked at other posts about other devices but most are pre-2025. I am looking for the best, most powerful, easy to use, as future proof as possible device available. How about a poll to find out what everyone thinks or a ratings list of newest devices? I know everyone has their own opinions and I am a bit scared that the Onn and bigger brand devices will eventually go the way of Amazon. Then again, I’m not sure about purchasing from a small fly by night operation. I have enjoyed my Firestick for many years, even with all its flaws, but this latest move is the final straw. Ultimately it doesn’t have to be the biggest, baddest device if the price is cheap enough, but I would also like to know my options beyond the obvious ones that are available in the U.S. Thanks in advance!

Miki · 2025-06-26T23:52:30.521Z

Patron sign ups are temporarily discontinued. They should be open again soon. Troy is most likely doing some site work again.

Miki · 2025-06-26T23:53:50.960Z

welcome

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