Privacy Policy for Backpage

At Backpage, your privacy and security are our top priorities. As one of the most trusted online platforms for posting classified ads — whether for real estate, services, job listings, or adult content — we are committed to safeguarding the personal information you provide. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, share, and protect your data when using Backpage, and ensures that you can make informed decisions about your personal information.

By accessing or using Backpage, you agree to the terms of this Privacy Policy. If you do not agree with the terms outlined, please refrain from using our platform.

1. Information We Collect

We gather various types of information to provide a personalized, efficient, and secure experience for our users. Our collection process includes both personal data you provide voluntarily and data we collect automatically.

a. Personal Information

When you create an account, post ads, or engage with other users on Backpage, we collect the following personal information:

We collect this data to ensure you have a seamless and secure experience on the platform. This allows us to provide a user-friendly environment where you can post, browse, and interact with other users effectively.

b. Automatically Collected Data

As you interact with our platform, we may collect certain data automatically to enhance the functionality of Backpage and improve our services. This data includes:

This information is essential for analyzing site usage patterns, optimizing the user experience, and ensuring our platform operates efficiently.

c. Cookies and Tracking Technologies

Backpage uses cookies and other tracking technologies to personalize content, store preferences, and track site performance. Cookies help us offer a more tailored experience by remembering your preferences and login credentials across visits. You can control cookie settings through your browser, although disabling them may impact some features on our website.

d. User-Generated Content

As a classified ads platform, Backpage relies on user-generated content, including images, text, and videos. Any content you upload becomes part of the publicly accessible marketplace. Be mindful not to share sensitive or personally identifiable information within your ads.

2. How We Use Your Information

The personal data we collect is used to deliver our services and improve your overall experience on Backpage. Here’s how we use your information:

3. Sharing Your Information

We do not sell, rent, or lease your personal information to third parties for marketing purposes. However, there are situations where we may share your data:

a. Third-Party Service Providers

We work with trusted third-party companies who assist us in operating the platform, such as payment processors, advertising partners, and customer service providers. These partners are required to handle your information in accordance with our privacy standards and are not permitted to use your data for any other purposes.

b. Legal Requirements

In certain circumstances, we may be required to disclose your personal information to comply with legal processes, such as subpoenas or court orders, or to protect the rights, property, or safety of Backpage, our users, or others.

c. Business Transfers

If Backpage undergoes a merger, acquisition, or sale of assets, your personal data may be transferred as part of the transaction. In such cases, we will notify you, and your data will continue to be protected by this Privacy Policy.

d. Aggregated or Anonymized Data

We may share non-personally identifiable information for analytical or marketing purposes. This aggregated data cannot be used to identify specific users.

4. Data Security

The protection of your personal data is crucial. Backpage uses a combination of physical, electronic, and procedural safeguards to protect your personal information from unauthorized access, alteration, or disclosure. These measures include encryption, firewalls, secure servers, and regular security audits.

However, please note that no system is completely secure. While we strive to protect your data, we cannot guarantee the absolute security of any information transmitted over the internet.

5. Your Rights and Choices

As a user of Backpage, you have control over your personal data. You can exercise the following rights:

a. Access and Update Your Information

You can access and update your personal information by logging into your Backpage account. If you need assistance, you can contact our support team.

b. Deletion of Data

You can request the deletion of your personal information by contacting us. While we will strive to honor your request, some data may be retained for legal, regulatory, or operational purposes.

c. Opt-Out of Marketing Communications

If you no longer wish to receive promotional emails, you can unsubscribe by clicking the "unsubscribe" link in our emails or by contacting us directly.

d. Cookie Preferences

You can manage your cookie preferences through your browser settings. However, please note that blocking or deleting cookies may impact certain features of the site.

e. California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA)

For California residents, you have additional rights under the CCPA, including the right to access, delete, and opt out of the sale of your personal data. For more information, please see our CCPA notice.

6. Retention of Data

We retain your personal information for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes for which it was collected or as required by law. After this period, we take reasonable steps to delete or anonymize your data.

7. Links to Third-Party Websites

Our website may contain links to third-party websites or services that are not operated by Backpage. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of these third-party sites. We encourage you to review their privacy policies before providing any personal information.

8. Children’s Privacy

Backpage is intended for users 18 years and older. We do not knowingly collect personal information from individuals under the age of 18. If we discover that we have inadvertently collected such data, we will take steps to delete it.

9. Privacy in Adult Categories and Sub-Categories

Since Backpage includes adult content categories, we implement additional measures to protect user privacy in these sections:

a. Sensitive Content Protection

When posting in adult categories, we strongly recommend not sharing personally identifiable information. Any content posted in these categories is publicly visible.

b. Age Verification

Users accessing adult content are required to verify their age to comply with legal standards. Age verification is handled securely and does not involve storing sensitive personal data.

c. Data Collection in Adult Categories

In adult sections, we collect content-related data such as descriptions, images, and user interactions. This information is used to provide relevant ads and improve the overall experience while ensuring compliance with our terms and applicable laws.

d. Content Moderation and Compliance

We actively moderate adult content to ensure it complies with our platform’s policies and legal requirements. Any content deemed illegal or inappropriate will be promptly removed.

10. Changes to This Privacy Policy

Backpage may update this Privacy Policy to reflect changes in our services, technology, or legal obligations. When significant changes are made, we will notify you via email or post a notice on the website. We encourage you to review this policy periodically to stay informed of any updates.

11. Contact Us

If you have any questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy or our privacy practices, please contact us:

Email: support@backpage.io
Phone: +1 (555) 123-4567

Thank you for choosing Backpage. We value your privacy and are committed to ensuring a safe and secure experience for all users.