Backpage is a website for ads for almost anything you can imagine that may be found—you may have heard of it. This is due to the fact that it garnered national attention a few years ago when some dubious individuals used it for dubious purposes. Having said that, a lot of individuals utilized Backpage for legal purposes, such as purchasing or selling common things, much like you can on well-known websites like OfferUp.
Although Craigslist is a viable and well-liked alternative for Backpage, personal advertisements are no longer available on it. Continue reading to find out more about twenty of the top websites that are backpage alternatives. We’ll start by discussing Backpage alternatives for hooking up or casual dating (similar to Tinder), and then we’ll discuss Backpage alternative sites for purchasing and selling products.
While the majority of these websites are entirely genuine, a small percentage may include fraud or advertisements for illicit activity. Generally speaking, you should always use backpage-style websites or publicly accessible sites that have not been thoroughly screened. Never forget to follow your instincts and to meet in a public setting.
What is Backpage.com and Why Did Government Officials Close It Down?
After Craigslist, Backpage.com was the second-biggest website for classified ads. In 2010, it saw a massive surge in traffic and popularity following Craigslist‘s closure of its adult services section. Federal law enforcement shut down Backpage.com, which was one of the biggest websites for classified ads. Federal law enforcement took control of the website Backpage in April 2018 because it served as the main platform for connecting dating buyers and vendors. Backpage offers a number of categories where buyers and sellers may interact for a variety of reasons. However, the Backpage adult sections quickly gained a lot of popularity. The back page was being used by dating agents and intermediaries to market online dating. In 2013 and 2014 alone, the website brought in over $100 million annually.
11 Backpage Alternatives for Meeting People and Dating
People have been looking for websites like Backpage. And it is the ideal marketplace for purchasing or selling products and services. Many websites have surfaced as alternatives for Backpage.
1. eBackpage
Ebackpage is a Backpage clone that resembles Bedpage in almost every way. Similar to Bedpage, there are “Dating” and “Adult” categories with standard possibilities, and personal advertising is accessible, just as on Back page. It seems that not many individuals were posting on this site, though. For instance, the most recent posts in the “Women Seek Men” section date back to May 2021. Though there are a lot of con artists on this website, you may still check it out.
2. Kasual
Because it is so distinctive, Kasual, originally known as Yumi, is a great alternative to Backpage. Rather than being matched by an algorithm or swiping, you are paired at random with someone, and you may start a conversation right away to determine if there is chemistry. Both Android and iOS users may download this app, and the free version is very full-featured. However, you may always choose to upgrade to the premium membership if you’d like. In the end, because Kasual is completely focused on casual hookups—hence the rebranding name—it’s a breath of fresh air compared to many hookup sites like Tinder.
3. Plenty of Fish
Plenty of Fish, or POF, is an acronym for the dating adage that there are “plenty of fish in the sea”—that is, there are lots of people out there—billions of them, actually—so don’t worry about being single or breaking up with someone. The wonderful thing about POF is that it can be used as an app or website. It’s a very standard dating service where users are paired with others who have interests in common. Additionally, they provide a great video-date function that might reassure you—especially women—about meeting up with someone after observing them on video. Also check: How To Delete Plenty Of Fish Account – Mytechblog
4. Pernals
The focus of the Pernals app is on personal advertisements. You may specify precisely what you’re seeking (a relationship, casual hookup, buddy, etc.) by creating your own personal ad for free. In fact, Pernals markets itself as a straight alternate for Backpage classified advertisements. Similar to Backpage’s personals page, they provide relationship categories such as platonic, woman seeking woman, woman seeking man, man seeking woman, etc. The only way to get it is as an app, which you can download from the Apple Store or Google Play.
5. Ashley Madison
Ads for Ashley Madison have most likely been shown on such websites. This is so since the main purpose of this website is to link together people seeking casual hookups. The fact that Ashley Madison places a strong emphasis on secrecy is a major bonus. In the event that you choose to pay for membership, for instance, your credit card statement will only say “Online services.” And if you want to utilize all that this website has to offer—like “Traveling Man,” which connects you with locals in the place you’ll be visiting shortly—you’ll definitely want to do that.
6. Bedpage
Bedpage has a wide range of topics, those searching for a backpage alternative could find the “Dating” and “Adult” sections to be particularly interesting. However, you should proceed with caution when using this site, since there are undoubtedly many people attempting to exploit it to commit illegal actions or swindle others.
7. Doublelist
Another website that is comparable to Backpage is DoubleList. The fact that you have to register before you can explore their website—which opens with the motto “Connect with straight, gay, bi, and curious!”—is a little aggravating. So, using Doublelist, it’s easy to determine what the majority of users are searching for. However, they assert to have over three million members in the United States, so there’s a big possibility you’ll find something you click with. As always, be wary of con artists and other so-called fraudsters.
8. Locanto
The layout of Locanto is similar to that of Oodle and the other Backpage clones. One category that has several subcategories is “Casual Encounters.” You may advertise what you’re searching for by posting a personal ad. Similar to Oodle, it seems that guys post more frequently on this app, and some of the posts made by women look quite shady. Locanto could turn out to be a good choice for meeting people if you use common sense.
9. Tinder
There really isn’t much need to introduce this one, as almost everyone and their mother have heard about Tinder. Thanks in large part to its appeal to millennials and Generation Z, it has expanded globally and is currently the most popular dating app worldwide in terms of active accounts. For those who do not know, Tinder is a really simple app. Random profiles with pictures and a brief description appear in your region. After that, you can swipe left to show a lack of interest or right to show interest. Those that you swiped right on and who also swiped right on your profile will then be paired with you. You may then initiate texting and continue from there. Similar to other websites, Tinder offers a free version in addition to a premium tier (Tinder Gold) that offers limitless swiping and more features. Also check: How to Run a Background Check on a Tinder Match?
10. Oodle
With sections like “Men Seek Women,” “Women Seek Men,” and others, Oodle’s features are strikingly similar to those of vintage personals websites. In addition, there are filters, such as age, that are useful if you want to focus on certain aspects. It doesn’t seem like many people use this site, but it could be worth a try. It might not be the best choice for you, though, as there are far more guys than women posting on it—at least not in my region.
11. Adult FriendFinder
In terms of back page alternatives for romantic dates, Adult FriendFinder is unquestionably among the best options. Claiming to be “The World’s Largest Sex Dating Site and Swinger Personals Community,” it boasts an astounding number of members—more than 100 million, to be exact. Similar to Ashley Madison, there is a free alternative, although it is not as extensive as the premium membership tier. You may describe your ideal dating life in chat rooms, vlogs, texting, and a premium tool called Stories, which allows other users to see whether you and they have similar interests or aspirations.
Conclusion
Though different from Backpage, an alternate is still a wise option. It has several drawbacks while being free. Also, using them is risk-free. Generally speaking, if you’re in the United States, your best option is probably to continue using one of the popular hookup or dating sites, like Ashley Madison, Adult Friend Finder, Tinder, or another app that’s comparable to those.
Additionally, your best option is definitely to stick with OfferUp or LetGo if you’re wanting to purchase and sell items. Go to Kijiji if you’re in Canada, and Gumtree if you’re in the UK. Similar to other websites in speed. If there isn’t a back page available, it’s advisable to select a different backpage option. With the correct platform, finding an alternative to Backpage might be difficult, but not impossible. There are several that can satisfy your requirements.
FAQ
Is using an alternative to Backpage safe?
In general, using Backpage alternatives is safe. so long as you select a platform that is reputable for security and safety.
How can I pick the best Backpage alternative for my needs?
Think about the particular requirements and preferences you have when selecting a backpage alternative. Including the variety of goods and services provided, dependability, and user-friendly interface.
