FBI joins search for missing California grandfather in crypto kidnapping
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The FBI has joined the search for a missing Southern California grandfather as authorities escalate what is now being assessed as a kidnapping investigation tied to a disturbing web of fraud, impersonation and possible targeting tied to a cryptocurrency fortune.
Nai Ping Hou, 74, disappeared from her home in Rancho Cucamonga in March 2025 and was reported missing weeks later on May 4.
Federal officials said Hou’s bank accounts were depleted before law enforcement was notified of his disappearance, suspecting possible foul play.
Investigators with the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department initially described the case as a suspicious disappearance, but now say evidence points to a possible abduction.
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Hou’s son, Wen Hou, said he last saw his father on a fishing trip in March, a few days before he disappeared.
“He was in a very good mood” Wen Hou told KTLA. “He caught a lot of fish. His friends were there too. He was very happy.”
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Naiping Hou’s family is offering a $250,000 reward as police investigate his suspicious disappearance, which involves identity theft and impersonation. (findnaipinghou.com)
But weeks later, subtle changes raised alarms.
“[Always saying] “He’s tired or he’ll call me later, it’s just weird reasons,” he said. “He had very short answers and wasn’t posting photos anymore.”
Wen Hou said that this incident really started when his father stopped answering calls altogether and sent an unusually cold message on his birthday.
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“It’s surreal to think that someone could impersonate my dad via text.” he previously told KABC.
The family said they realized at that moment something was seriously wrong and became deeply concerned for his safety.
When friends went to check on Hou’s house in early May, they found it completely evacuated.
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The family of Naiping Hou, a missing Rancho Cucamonga man, fears his disappearance is linked to his cryptocurrency successes after more than $1 million was withdrawn from his accounts. (San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Office)
“Something really strange is happening,” Wen Hou said. “The place was completely evacuated. No people, vehicles or garbage were left behind.”
Investigators later confirmed there was “extensive fraudulent activity” on Hou’s bank accounts around the time he disappeared. More than $1 million was withdrawn through unauthorized transactions, including gold and cryptocurrency purchases.
“His money was also gone,” Wen Hou said. “Money was being transferred online to buy gold. He’s not very tech-savvy, so I don’t know how he could do this himself.”
GOT A TIP?
Authorities said Hou’s vehicles were also sold and there was an apparent attempt to rent his home.
Hou’s wife was out of the country visiting family in China at the time of his disappearance and received unusual messages on his phone, including one suggesting he delay returning home.
Although investigators have not confirmed any motive, the family told KABC they feared Hou could be targeted because of his financial success in cryptocurrency. Wen Hou is a hedge fund manager who has invested heavily in this area.
“I miss him so much,” Wen Hou said. “He has always been a guiding presence in my life.”
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“We’re really worried and we really want my dad to come back,” he added.
Hou is described as being 6 feet tall and weighing approximately 170 pounds, with dark hair and a birthmark on the upper left shoulder. He also has a surgery scar on his waist. He has not been seen or heard from since March 2025.
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Investigators are seeking information about a silver Toyota Yaris in connection with the disappearance of Naiping Hou in San Bernardino County. (San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Office)
Investigators are also seeking information about a silver Toyota Yaris believed to be connected to the incident.
The Hou family launched a special website to raise awareness, share photos and collect tips. The site includes a video message in which Wen Hou makes an emotional plea for his father’s safe return.
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A reward of up to $250,000 is being offered for information leading to Hou’s safe return or the arrest of those responsible.
Authorities ask anyone with information to contact the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department or the FBI.
