Frequently Asked Questions
Short answers about what a check does and what it does not claim.
What is a Downloader code?
A numeric short code used by the Downloader app. It stands in for a URL, and that URL may redirect before it reaches a final address.
What does DownloaderChecker do?
It looks up the current destination for a code, follows HTTP redirects, and shows the status, hostname, redirect path, and whether that destination has changed since an earlier check.
Is it part of the Downloader app?
No. DownloaderChecker is an independent service and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by AFTVnews or the Downloader app.
Does it host APKs?
No. DownloaderChecker does not host or distribute APKs or other files. Destinations are controlled by their own operators.
Does it guarantee a file is safe?
No. A working or redirected status only describes the HTTP response at the time of the check. It is not a statement that a file, site, or publisher is trustworthy.
Why did a code change destination?
The operator of the code can point it somewhere else. DownloaderChecker reports that a later check saw a different destination. It does not know why the operator made the change.
Why is a code unavailable?
The destination may have returned an error such as 404 or 410, or the check could not get a response. The result page shows the latest status and the last checked time.
Why was a destination blocked?
DownloaderChecker will not inspect addresses that are not safe for an automated public check, including private and internal targets. A blocked result does not display those addresses.
How often are codes checked?
A code is checked when someone requests it. A recent successful or not-working result can be reused for a short time so the same code is not scanned on every view. Check Again asks for a new scan and is rate limited.
What happens when a code points to an APK?
The result page still shows the destination immediately. APK analysis runs afterward. When it finishes, the page can show the package name, version, file size, architectures, a shortened SHA-256, permissions, and whether the signing certificate matches an earlier observation. DownloaderChecker deletes the temporary APK and does not host it. None of this means the file is safe to install.
Can I report a suspicious code?
Yes. Use Report Code, choose a reason, and add an optional note. Reports are stored for review. Sending a report does not take the destination offline.