When it comes to finding casual encounters and hookups, Craigslist used to be the go-to platform for many people. However, with the recent shutdown of its personals section, users are left wondering where they can now turn to for their next fling.
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Saying Goodbye to Craigslist Hookups: Where to Find Your Next Fling
Craigslist was once the go-to website for finding casual hookups and one-night stands. Its anonymous nature and lack of fees made it a popular choice among those looking for short-term sexual encounters. However, with the rise of online dating and hookup apps like Tinder, Grindr, and Bumble, Craigslist’s popularity has significantly declined in recent years.
In 2018, Craigslist shut down its personals section following the passing of the Stop Enabling Sex Traffickers Act (SESTA) and Fight Online Sex Trafficking Act (FOSTA). These laws were put in place to combat sex trafficking on websites that facilitate prostitution or illegal activities. While this move was applauded by many as a step towards protecting vulnerable individuals from exploitation, it also left many users without their beloved platform for finding casual hookups.
But fear not! In 2025, there are numerous alternatives to Craigslist for those looking for a quick fling or no-strings-attached encounter. Dating websites have stepped up to fill the void left by Craigslist personals, offering similar features but with better security measures in place. Here are four top choices that may just help you find your next fling:
AdultFriendFinder
Founded in 1996, AdultFriendFinder is one of the oldest and most well-known adult dating websites out there. It boasts over 80 million members worldwide and offers various options for all kinds of relationships – whether you’re looking for a traditional monogamous relationship or something more casual.
Pros:
- The site offers detailed search filters so you can narrow down your matches according to specific preferences.
- The sheer number of users means you’ll likely find someone who shares your interests.
- Members can choose between free basic membership or paid premium membership for added features.
- There is a mobile app available for convenient access on-the-go.
Cons:
- Paid membership can get pricey, especially if you want to access all the features offered by the site.
- The user interface may feel outdated compared to newer dating websites.
- The site has been known to have fake profiles and scammers, so be cautious when interacting with other members.
Ashley Madison
Ashley Madison gained notoriety in 2015 after being hacked and exposing the personal information of its users. However, it still remains one of the top choices for those looking for extramarital affairs or discreet hookups.
Pros:
- The site also offers a feature called Traveling Man where you can search for potential matches in cities you will be traveling to in the future – perfect for business trips or vacations!
- You can browse anonymously, which offers added security and privacy for those who are concerned about their identity being revealed.
- Discreet billing options are available so that charges won’t show up on your credit card statement as Ashley Madison.
- The site has strict profile verification processes in place to filter out potential scammers and fake accounts.
Cons:
- The paid membership fees can add up quickly if you want access to all features such as messaging and viewing full profiles.
- Sadly, there is still a stigma attached to using Ashley Madison due to its history of promoting infidelity. This may deter some people from joining the site.
- If discretion is essential to you, keep in mind that your account could potentially be exposed again in a hack similar to what happened in 2015.
Confide
If you’re worried about privacy and security, Confide may be the perfect option for you. This app gained popularity in 2018 after it was revealed that White House staff members were using it to communicate confidential information.
Pros:
- All messages on the app are end-to-end encrypted, meaning they cannot be intercepted by anyone else. To fully immerse yourself in the virtual reality camming experience, be sure to visit vr cam girls who specialize in creating a truly interactive and immersive encounter.
- Messages self-destruct once they are read, so there’s no risk of someone accidentally stumbling upon your private conversations.
- The app doesn’t require any personal information like phone numbers or email addresses, keeping your identity anonymous.
Cons:
- Since this is primarily an app used for business purposes, finding a hookup may not be as easy compared to other dating websites with larger user bases dedicated to casual encounters. During the review process, we found that many apps offering free messaging on hookup sites lacked certain features or had limited functionality compared to paid options.
- Confide is not a dating website per se. It is more of a messaging tool designed for professionals who need to keep their communications secure and confidential.
- The lack of profile customization options means there isn’t much room for users to express their interests or preferences.
SextFriend
SextFriend is another popular adult dating website that boasts over 90 million members worldwide. This site focuses mainly on connecting individuals looking for sexting partners and virtual hookups.
Pros:
- You can search for potential matches based on specific kinks and fetishes – perfect for those with particular sexual interests!
- The site offers both free basic membership and paid premium options with additional features such as video chat and unlimited messaging. Or, if you want to really turn up the heat during your sexting sessions, try incorporating some seductive phrases that will leave him begging for more.
- The verification process helps filter out fake profiles and scammers, ensuring safer interactions between members.
Cons:
- The focus on sexting and virtual hookups may not appeal to everyone, especially those looking for a more traditional casual encounter.
- Some users have reported issues with the app crashing or freezing during use.
- If you prefer face-to-face interactions over virtual ones, then SextFriend may not be the best choice for you since most engagements take place through messaging and video chat.
Recap
While Craigslist was once a go-to website for finding casual hookups, it’s clear that there are now many alternatives available. Whether you prefer traditional dating websites like AdultFriendFinder and Ashley Madison or apps focused more on discreet communication like Confide and SextFriend, there is something out there for everyone.
It’s essential to remember that no matter which site you choose, safety should always be a top priority. Be cautious when interacting with strangers online, never give out personal information too quickly, and always meet in public places for first-time encounters. With these precautions in mind, happy flinging!
AdultFriendFinder
✔️ Chat with horny girls
✔️ No Credit Card or Signup Needed
✔️ 10m+ members
Ashley Madison
✔️ No signup or payment for first month
✔️ Millions of local members
✔️ Chat & fuck in your area
Confide
✔️ Messages disappear after reading
✔️ Screen-shot protected for privacy
✔️ Encrypted end-to-end communication
SextFriend
✔️ Private & secure messaging features
✔️ Share nudes, sexy videos & sexts
✔️ Anonymity guaranteed for all users
What alternatives are there for finding hookups after Craigslist’s personals section was shut down?
There are several alternatives for finding hookups after Craigslist’s personals section was shut down. One option is to use other online platforms such as dating apps, social media, or adult-oriented websites. Another option is to join local events or clubs geared towards casual encounters. One can ask friends or acquaintances for introductions or utilize personal advertisements in newspapers. It may be a combination of these methods that work best for each individual.
How has the lack of anonymity on dating apps affected the hookup culture?
The lack of anonymity on dating apps has had a significant impact on the hookup culture, as people are now more cautious and selective about who they connect with. This has led to a decrease in casual hookups and an increase in more meaningful connections.