There are a lot of people who look at the number on ad sites and nothing else, then start dialing with their dick.
(I heard that somewhere, and it was pretty funny - and accurate.)
I believe Backpage provides an auto-reply. Many people who don't read ads, and just start dialing for a discount aren't going to read the auto-reply on Backpage. Which weeds out a lot of bullshit.
If you have to put a phone number, put a phone number with an auto-text reply directing them to your email, and a voicemail directing them to your email (or web form, etc.) and then TURN IT OFF! Turn off the phone.
Don't answer the backpage messages, answer the emails that come to your email address included in your auto-reply to them from back-page. (It helps when it starts out with, "How to book a date with me."
People who read replies thoroughly and stop to think for a second tend to be more likely concrete / clients with substance. It does weed out a few good ones in the process as well, but I've noticed it's easier to retain interest from current clients when I haven't been sifting through garbage in my inbox. In the end, you start developing a more secure base that way, so I don't really see money lost, except "quick money".
Looking on BP - it looks like there is a reply button. I imagine they still have the auto-reply option for you?
Now - on that note - I just checked out the dating section, (I believe that is what is used nowadays?) and it's all phone numbers with no place for text or content, a title, nothing. That is ridiculous, and sounds like a huge cluster-fuck. Yikes!
-- Modified on 2/15/2018 4:46:55 PM