Where Did Backpage Posters Go? Best Alternatives & Safe Options

Key Takeaways:

• Backpage was shut down in 2018, leaving users scrambling for alternatives.
• Many former Backpage posters moved to sites like Craigslist, Doublelist, and niche classified platforms.
• Some turned to social media groups or forums to fill the gap.
• Scams and sketchy sites popped up, so caution is key.
• The landscape of online classifieds has changed, but options still exist.

Hey there, folks. If you're like me, you probably remember Backpage as the go-to spot for buying, selling, or just browsing local ads. Whether it was used cars, furniture, jobs, or… other services, Backpage had it all.

Then, in 2018, it got shut down. Just like that—gone.

So, where did all those Backpage posters go? That’s what we’re digging into today. I’ve done some research (and made a few mistakes along the way), so let me save you the hassle.

Why Backpage Disappeared

First, a quick recap. Backpage got into hot water over illegal activities, especially related to adult services. The government cracked down hard, seizing the site and charging its owners.

Overnight, millions of users were left without their favorite classifieds hub. Some were legit sellers. Others… well, let’s just say they had to find new places to operate.

Where Backpage Users Went Next

When Backpage vanished, people scrambled. Some spots became popular fast, while others turned out to be total dumps. Here’s the breakdown:

1. Craigslist (The Obvious Choice)

Craigslist was always Backpage’s older cousin. When Backpage died, a lot of folks just went back to Craigslist.

• Pros: Free, well-known, tons of categories.
• Cons: Strict rules (especially for adult services), lots of competition.

Funny thing—Craigslist actually removed its "Personals" section around the same time Backpage got taken down. Coincidence? Probably not.

2. Doublelist (The Backpage Clone)

Doublelist popped up fast after Backpage’s shutdown. It looks and feels a lot like Backpage’s old personals section.

• Pros: Easy to use, similar vibe.
• Cons: Smaller user base, some areas have few listings.

I tried it once. It’s okay, but not quite the same.

3. Social Media & Forums

Believe it or not, Facebook groups and Reddit forums became a big replacement.

Facebook Marketplace is huge for selling stuff.

Private groups (some sketchy, some legit) popped up for more… discreet services.

The problem? Facebook cracks down hard on anything against their rules. So these groups don’t last long.

4. Niche Classified Sites

Depending on what you’re looking for, smaller sites might work:

• OfferUp & Letgo (now merged) – Good for selling stuff.
• 5miles – Another local buy/sell app.
• Skipthegames & Bedpage – These popped up as Backpage alternatives, but be careful. Lots of scams here.

5. The Dark & Shady Side

Let’s be real—some Backpage users weren’t there for used couches. When the site shut down, many moved to:

• Escort directories (like Eros, Slixa).
• Underground forums (harder to find, riskier).

I won’t link to these for obvious reasons. If you’re looking, watch out. Scams are everywhere.

What to Watch Out For

The internet’s wild west these days. Here’s how to avoid getting burned:

• Too-good-to-be-true deals? Probably fake.
• Asking for deposits upfront? Red flag.
• Sketchy redirects or pop-ups? Close the tab.

I learned this the hard way. A few years back, I clicked on a "Backpage replacement" site and got hit with malware. Not fun.

Is There a True Backpage Replacement?

Short answer? No.

Backpage had a huge mix of users—some legit, some not. No single site has filled that exact gap. But depending on what you need, there are options:

• Selling stuff? Try Facebook Marketplace or OfferUp.
• Jobs or services? Craigslist still works.
• Personals? Doublelist or niche forums.

It’s not the same, but it’s something.

Conclusion

Backpage’s shutdown left a hole in the online classifieds world. Some moved to Craigslist. Others tried sketchy alternatives. A few gave up entirely.

If you’re still looking for a Backpage replacement, just be smart. Stick to well-known sites, avoid shady links, and trust your gut.

Times have changed, but the internet always adapts.

FAQs

1. Why did Backpage get shut down?

The U.S. government accused it of facilitating illegal activities, especially sex trafficking. The owners were charged, and the site was seized.

2. Is Doublelist safe?

It’s safer than some alternatives, but still has risks. Always meet in public places if dealing with strangers.

3. Are there any free alternatives to Backpage?

Yes! Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and OfferUp are free for most listings.

4. Did Backpage ever come back?

Nope. Some copycat sites popped up (like Bedpage), but they’re not the same and often full of scams.

5. What’s the best site for casual encounters now?

Doublelist is the closest, but it depends on your location. Some people use Reddit or private Facebook groups.

And that’s the scoop, friends. Miss Backpage? Yeah, me too. But life—and the internet—goes on. Stay safe out there!