Craigslist closes personal ads in U.S.

SAN FRANCISCO — Americans looking for love or companionship on Craigslist won’t be able to make a connection after the classified ads site took its personals section offline in the United States on Friday.

The action comes after the U.S. Senate on Wednesday passed an anti-sex trafficking bill that, if it becomes law, could hold the website and others responsible for illegal activities. The company says the Fight Online Sex Trafficking Act seeks to subject websites to criminal and civil liability.

A message on the site says any tool or service can be misused and the company hopes it can bring them back “some day.” Craigslist closed by saying: “To the millions of spouses, partners, and couples who met through Craigslist, we wish you every happiness!”

A message seeking comment from Craigslist was not immediately returned.