Type of site
|
Online dating service |
---|---|
Available in | English, Spanish, French, German, Japanese, Chinese, Portuguese, Tagalog, Italian |
Alexa rank | 2206 (May 2017[update]) |
Commercial | Yes |
Registration | Yes |
Current status | Active |
Adult FriendFinder (AFF) is an internet-based, adult-oriented social network, online dating service and swinger personals community website, founded by Andrew Conru in 1996.
In 2007 AFF was one of the 100 most popular sites in the United States; its competitors include sites such as Match.com.
In 1994, Andrew Conru created the first online dating site, WebPersonals. After selling that site in 1995, he launched FriendFinder.com, an early social networking site, in 1996. Days after the site went live, Conru found that people were posting naked pictures of themselves and seeking partners for adult-oriented activities. As a result, Conru started Adult FriendFinder, which he described as "a release valve". FriendFinder has since established other niche dating sites, including Senior FriendFinder, Amigos.com, BigChurch.com, and Alt.com.
The parent company (Various, Inc.) had difficulty finding venture capital due to the adult nature of its business. In December 2007, the company was sold to the Penthouse Media Group for $500 million. Penthouse later changed its name to FriendFinder Networks. In October 2009, as part of an arrangement with The Kluger Agency, musician Flo Rida released a music video for his song "Touch Me" via Adult FriendFinder. A representative of the agency stated that it was "always great to combine a very sexy high octane record with a very sexy brand.
On September 17, 2013, parent company FriendFinder Networks filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. In December 2013, FriendFinder Networks emerged from bankruptcy protection with reorganization in effect. Founder Andrew Conru gained control of the company and serves as CEO.
Accessing certain features, such as e-mail, private chat rooms, webcams, blogging, and a webzine, requires paid membership. Adult FriendFinder has an affiliate program, whereby webmasters are compensated for referring users to the site.