11 Backpage Replacements and Alternative Websites for Classified Sex Ads
The original Backpage website faced a permanent shutdown in 2018 due to legal issues. These issues included allegations of facilitating illegal activities and money laundering. This created a notable void in the online classifieds landscape for various needs.
Many platforms have since emerged to fill this gap. These cater to those seeking personal ads, promoting services, or finding relationships. This guide will review 11 top Backpage alternative sites to help users navigate the options now available.
Best Alternatives to Backpage
- Ashley Madison — Best Backpage Alternative Overall (Top Choice)
- Adult Friend Finder — Backpage Replacement for Discreet Encounters
- BeNaughty — Backpage Alternative Website With Free Access for Women
- Meet-N-Hook — Backpage Alternative For No-Strings-Attached Meetups
- Classified Ads — Backpage Alternative for Adult Personals
- Tryst — Best Backpage Replacement With Ethical Practices
- Slixa — New Backpage for Premium Adult & Fetish Services
- Euro Girls Escort — Best Site Similar to Backpage for International Escort Listings
- Men Nation — Best Backpage Alternative for Gay Hookup
- Her — Good Backpage Replacement for LGBTQ+ women
- Grindr — Location-Based Backpage App for Gay Men
Each site below offers unique features, and we will detail their strengths and drawbacks.
Ashley Madison — Best Backpage Alternative Overall (Top Choice)
Ashley Madison is a premier Backpage replacement known for its focus on privacy and discretion. Users can create anonymous accounts and find discreet relationships or affairs. The platform boasts over 70 million members globally. This is a top choice for users prioritising privacy and control.
Ashley Madison's appeal also lies in its commitment to data privacy, which is a key concern for users seeking affairs or non-traditional relationships. The platform offers features such as message self-destruct, anonymous browsing, and blurred photos.
In recent years, Ashley Madison has upgraded its mobile interface, making it seamless for users to maintain connections on the go. Many users find the platform especially appealing due to its international reach, serving not just North America but also large user bases in Europe, Asia, and Latin America.
Pros
- Large user base
- Anonymous sign-up
- Private messaging
- User control through robust search filters
Cons
- Premium pricing for men
- Not designed for casual public ads
- Had a major cyber-attack in 2015
Adult Friend Finder — Backpage Replacement for Discreet Encounters
Adult Friend Finder is a leading alternative to Backpage for casual and adult-oriented relationships. Since 1996, it has facilitated over 4.5 million connections. The platform offers an interactive experience with live chats and video streams. This site is a strong option for open-minded dating.
Also, with robust chat and webcam capabilities, Adult Friend Finder features blogs, member magazines, and detailed intimacy preferences to help users find better matches. The platform encourages openness and freedom, with user-generated content including videos, stories, and groups.
AFF is particularly well-regarded for its inclusiveness, welcoming users of all sexual orientations and relationship styles, including polyamory and kink. It’s also one of the few platforms that offers real-time live streaming and voyeur rooms, which offer low-pressure connections.
Pros
- Huge and active user base
- Advanced search tools
- Free browsing
- Community features like chat rooms and forums
Cons
- May have an overwhelming user interface
- Many features are paid
- Concerns exist about fake profiles and bots
BeNaughty — Backpage Alternative Website With Free Access for Women
BeNaughty offers free communication for all users, making it a popular choice for casual dates. The site features a quick sign-up process and a playful interface. It is good for flirty conversations. Consider this platform for straightforward, casual dating.
BeNaughty's user base is largely younger adults, and the site's gamified features—like wink sending and daily match suggestions—add a playful tone. It provides a “Safe Mode” option, allowing users to limit messages only to verified or trusted profiles.
Also, the website emphasizes consent and respect, with reporting and blocking features accessible on all profiles. The app version of BeNaughty makes it easy to stay engaged in conversations anytime.
Pros
- Free access for women
- It is easy to use
- Has active chat rooms
Cons
- Requires men to have premium plans
- May have frequent pop-ups or ads
Meet-N-Hook — Backpage Alternative For No-Strings-Attached Meetups
Meet-N-Hook is designed for fast, no-strings-attached encounters. It facilitates same-day meetups through geolocation features. The platform focuses on instant connections. This platform is good for private and discreet connections.
Meet-N-Hook is particularly effective for users who want spontaneous connections without prolonged messaging. With its location-based matching engine, the app connects users within a few-mile radius. It includes features like incognito mode and auto-delete chats to ensure privacy after a meetup.
Additionally, the app provides suggested messages to help users start conversations without pressure. Its intuitive interface is well-suited for people who value speed and minimal commitment. For people in metro areas, this site often delivers same-day results when used actively.
Pros
- Fast user flow
- Local-based search
- Private and discreet connections
Cons
- Relies heavily on its app
- Some profiles may be system-generated
Classified Ads — Backpage Alternative for Adult Personals
Classified Ads is a simple and free Backpage replacement. It allows users to post personal and business ads without cost. The design is minimalistic and works for various classified needs. This is a strong option for cost-free advertising.
Beyond dating and personals, Classified Ads also supports categories such as vehicles, rentals, and services, making it a versatile platform. The site’s intuitive navigation and easy post submission process appeal to users who want simplicity.
It doesn’t need account creation to browse or respond to ads, reducing friction for new users. For those looking for broad exposure in local markets without cost, it remains one of the most accessible options. In many areas, it rivals Craigslist for volume and engagement.
Pros
- Completely free to post and browse
- Offers broad categories
- Provides strong local visibility
Cons
- The interface is basic and less modern
- Has limited interactive features
- Lacks built-in user verification
Tryst — Best Backpage Replacement With Ethical Practices
Tryst is a trusted platform for verified adult service providers. It focuses on safety and ethical practices. The site offers professional listing tools. This platform emphasises authenticity and privacy.
Tryst's vetting process ensures that only legitimate, independent providers are listed, helping reduce scams significantly. The site also emphasizes ethical advertising and community standards, which are appreciated by both providers and clients.
Unlike other platforms that may charge for visibility, Tryst ensures that users can filter by verified status, services offered, and availability. It supports multimedia-rich profiles, allowing providers to present their services with clarity. It’s particularly popular in North America and parts of Europe where regulation and verification are crucial.
Pros
- Includes verified listings for authenticity
- Features a clean, mobile-friendly interface
- Emphasises privacy for both users and providers
Cons
- Restricted to adult services
- Has a smaller audience reach than older platforms
- Requires ID verification for providers
Slixa — New Backpage for Premium Adult & Fetish Services
Slixa caters to upscale adult entertainment with premium listings. It offers a high-end aesthetic with polished profiles. The platform focuses on safety and verified ads, primarily used in metropolitan areas. This site is ideal for niche and fetish services.
Slixa’s appeal to upscale clientele is enhanced by its aesthetic focus, where profile layouts resemble personal websites more than typical classifieds. This presentation helps attract serious clients and reduces spam or unserious inquiries. The platform also integrates educational resources and safety tips for both providers and clients. In cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago, Slixa is well-established, offering extensive listings and event opportunities for professionals in the adult industry.
Pros
- Provides professional layout and trusted listings
- Includes verified providers with rich profiles
- Offers advanced search filters
Cons
- Has a smaller reach outside major cities
- Less useful for budget-focused searches
Euro Girls Escort — Best Site Similar to Backpage for International Escort Listings
Euro Girls Escort is a global classifieds platform for independent escort listings. It serves users outside the U.S. and those traveling internationally. The site provides filters for city, language, and services. This platform is useful for international travel-based searches.
Euro Girls Escort is a good choice for users who travel frequently, offering a cohesive experience in many languages and currencies. The platform allows filtering by nationality, service type, and even languages, making it one of the most comprehensive directories.
It offers both independent and agency profiles, giving clients a choice between different service structures. The backend tools for providers also allow them to manage schedules, availability, and updates in real time.
Pros
- Boasts a diverse international directory
- Features a multi-language interface
- Provides verified profiles and agency representation
Cons
- Is escort-only
- Mostly premium listings
- Some regions have lighter traffic
Men Nation — Best Backpage Alternative for Gay Hookup
Men Nation is an LGBTQ+ friendly site designed for male-to-male hookups. It includes verification processes for security. The platform caters to no-strings-attached encounters. This is a secure and active community for gay men.
Men Nation stands out by fostering a space where discretion and respect are prioritized. The site regularly updates its moderation protocols to cut spam and fake accounts, and it includes robust search filters for specific body types, preferences, and relationship goals.
It also features adult cams, group chatrooms, and event listings for those who want to connect beyond one-on-one chats. Its simple yet functional design appeals to users of all ages, particularly those who appreciate a straightforward experience.
Pros
- Provides a secure environment for gay men
- Has an active community
- Features user verification
Cons
- Offers limited features for free users
- Not ideal for serious dating or relationships
Her — Good Backpage Replacement for LGBTQ+ women
Her is a social and dating hub focused on LGBTQ+ women. It includes features like events and groups for community building. The app aims to provide a safe and confident space. This app fosters a sense of community for its users.
Her goes beyond dating by offering a platform for activism and community engagement. It includes a robust content feed that highlights LGBTQ+ news, lifestyle articles, and safety tips. Many users join to expand their social circles, especially in new cities.
The app hosts local meetups and virtual events, making it easier to form genuine bonds before meeting in person. Its emphasis on identity and inclusivity helps users feel understood and respected.
Pros
- Is LGBTQ+ inclusive
- Great for community building
- Offers unlimited messaging
Cons
- Has low reach in non-urban areas
- May have a slower pace than mainstream apps
Grindr — Location-Based Backpage App for Gay Men
Grindr is an app-based platform known for fast matching via location. It is built for casual gay dating and has a global presence. The app helps gay men find hookups nearby. This platform offers quick connections for gay men.
Grindr’s hallmark is its real-time geolocation, making it ideal for impromptu meetups or chat sessions with nearby users. It allows users to tag their profile with “tribes” (like Bear, Twink, Otter, etc.), making community alignment easier.
While the app has faced scrutiny over privacy concerns, it has since implemented encrypted chats and opt-in location sharing. For many, Grindr is more than a hookup app—it’s a digital social space with community and advocacy ties.
Pros
- Offers real-time matches
- Features a global presence
- Designed for gay men
Cons
- Has low privacy
- Not suitable for long-term connections
- Concerns about training AI features with in-app chats
What is Backpage?
Backpage was a classified ads website launched in 2004, best known for its adult services section. It was shut down by the U.S. government in 2018 after allegations that it facilitated sex trafficking. Several executives were charged with crimes related to prostitution and money laundering.
What is the New Backpage?
Tryst is the new Backpage for escort services, featuring thousands of verified listings across U.S. cities with a strong focus on privacy, safety, and local discovery—similar to how Backpage once operated when it hosted over 1 million escort ads. Slixa, on the other hand, is the new Backpage for premium listings, catering to upscale escorts with polished profiles and a high-end user experience.
What Replaced Backpage?
Many sites replaced Backpage, but these 5 are the best ones:
- Ashley Madison — Best Backpage Alternative Overall (Top Choice)
- Adult Friend Finder — Backpage Replacement for Discreet Encounters
- BeNaughty — Backpage Alternative Website With Free Access for Women
- Meet-N-Hook — Backpage Alternative For No-Strings-Attached Meetups
- Classified Ads — Backpage Alternative for Adult Personals
Is there a Backpage App?
Yes, many apps available online are like Backpage. Our top pick includes:
- Ashley Madison — Best Backpage App for Hookup
- Adult Friend Finder — Best App for Discreet Encounters
- BeNaughty — Good App for Women
- Meet-N-Hook — Top App For No-Strings-Attached Meetups
- Classified Ads — Top App Like Backpage for Adult Personals
What to Look for in a Backpage Alternative Website
When choosing a Backpage alternative, look for effective location filters to connect with users in your area. Active users ensure a vibrant community and better response rates. Free ad posting options can be a significant benefit.
User and profile verification helps reduce scams and fraudulent activities. Mobile-friendliness is crucial for on-the-go access. Focus on sites with strong safety practices and ease of use. Focus on platforms that cater to dating, personals, adult services, or small business promotion, depending on your needs.
You may also want to consider the following:
- Privacy controls: Options like anonymous messaging or hidden profiles are valuable.
- Community standards: A platform that bans abusive users offers a better experience.
- Payment transparency: Be wary of hidden charges or misleading subscription models.
- Cross-platform support: If you use multiple devices, look for services that work well on desktop and mobile.
Ultimately, the best platform depends on your goals—whether you're looking for casual hookups, dating, business ads, or companionship.
Using Backpage Alternatives With Safety
Prioritizing your safety is crucial when using any online casual connection platform. Always keep personal information private, such as your full name, home address, and phone number, until you fully trust someone. Using the platform's communication tools is recommended, as they often have better security and allow you to block or report suspicious users.
Verifying identities, possibly through video calls, can confirm that the person is who they claim to be. For first meetings, choose public places like coffee shops or restaurants, where help is accessible if needed. Inform a friend or family member about your plans, including details like time and place. Trust your instincts—if something feels off, remove yourself from the situation.
Extra safety tips:
- Avoid sending money to anyone online.
- Use a VPN to protect your IP address and browsing activity.
- Review privacy settings.
- Save screenshots of suspicious behavior for reporting purposes.
Safe practices go a long way in ensuring your experience is positive, respectful, and secure.
What Is a Backpage Alternative?
A Backpage alternative is a website where people can post and find personal ads, adult services, and job listings, like what Backpage offered before its shutdown. These platforms aim to fill the void left by Backpage, which was popular for these services.
They typically host casual dating ads and personals. Many users also turn to the best escort sites for verified listings focused on adult companionship. Often, they allow free or low-cost listings. Good alternatives often include privacy tools and profile verification. They cater to global and local users.
While some platforms maintain a focus on adult content, others diversify into community forums, local classifieds, gigs, and rentals. This variety gives users the flexibility to choose a space that best aligns with their goals, whether personal, commercial, or social.
Why Did Backpage Get Shut Down?
Backpage was shut down in April 2018. This action resulted from US law enforcement and legal pressure, with allegations of facilitating prostitution and human trafficking. Its CEO pleaded guilty to money laundering and conspiracy.
The shutdown highlighted the risks tied to unverified personal ads and illicit activity. It also emphasized the market's shift towards more verified and secure alternatives. In the aftermath, internet platforms began to place a stronger focus on safety, compliance, and content moderation. Many users migrated to niche or specialized platforms where the terms of service and verification processes were clearer.
This crackdown also marked a turning point in how adult services and personal ads were handled online. It raised questions about free speech, platform liability, and the need for ethical oversight in digital classifieds.
FAQs About Backpage Alternative Sites
Is Backpage legit in the United States?
Backpage is not legit in the United States anymore. It was seized by the FBI in 2018 due to illegal activity and is no longer operational.
What was Backpage used for?
Backpage was mainly used for classified ads, but it became notorious for hosting adult services and was shut down due to links to illegal activities.
Are There Free Classified Sites Like Backpage?
Yes, many Backpage alternatives offer free browsing, and some allow free posting. Examples include Bedpage, Classified Ads, Doublelist, Free Ads Time, and Locanto. These sites are suitable for those who want a no-cost way to advertise services or browse listings in their area.
Is It Safe to Use These Platforms?
The safety of using Backpage alternatives depends on the chosen site and user caution. Many reputable platforms include privacy tools, reporting systems, and basic verification to enhance user safety. Yet, users should always exercise caution, verify contacts, and avoid sharing personal details too soon.
Choose platforms with clear community guidelines and report options. If something feels suspicious, don’t hesitate to stop communication and report the user.
Which Is the Best Backpage Alternative for Casual Dating?
For casual dating, top Backpage alternative sites include Adult Friend Finder, Ashley Madison, Meet-N-Hook, and Slixa. Each offers a different experience, from general casual encounters to discreet affairs. Some specialize in anonymous flirting, while others promote a more tailored experience, like gay hookup sites.
What areas does Backpage replacement serve?
Backpage alternatives offer wide geographical coverage. Many serve the USA, Canada, and parts of Oceania. Some also have a strong presence in Mexico, Latin America, the Caribbean, Europe (including Italy, Kosovo, Iceland, Ireland, Serbia, and the UK), Africa, and Vietnam. Availability may vary in smaller towns.
It’s important to check if your city or region is listed on the platform and whether there are active users there. Some platforms offer dynamic maps or user counters to show real-time activity.
What replaced Backpage: Final Thoughts on this
The shutdown of Backpage led to many new platforms filling the void. These Backpage alternative sites offer a variety of options for dating, classifieds, and business promotion. The key to success is choosing a site that aligns with your specific needs and prioritising safety.
You can find platforms for discreet encounters, free classified ads, or verified adult services. The best option for you will depend on your goals—whether casual dating, adult connections, or simple advertising.
As always, start slow, be cautious, and explore different platforms before settling on one that fits your style. Whether you're seeking community, fun, or new connections, there’s likely a Backpage alternative tailored to you. And if you're simply looking for virtual companionship, some AI girlfriend apps provide an alternative way to connect without real-world complications.
Disclaimer: The information provided herein is for informational purposes only. Your use of any of the sites listed in this article is subject to each site's terms and conditions. Laws vary from state to state and over time. It is your sole responsibility to ensure the use of any sites or any of the services provided through the sites is compliant with your jurisdiction's laws. The information provided herein shall not be used in any way to exchange money for sex.
Author: Morris Munene
Morris Munene is a passionate, experienced writer/editor specializing in CBD, dating, gambling, and health. With seven years of expertise in web content creation, SEO, and editing, he excels in crafting compelling, informative content and transforming it into engaging content. His work has been featured in leading publications and online platforms, resonating with diverse audiences worldwide.
