Bell has reported a significant increase in thefts of copper wire from its telecommunications network in 2026, causing disruptions to phone and internet services. The company documented a total of 993 incidents of copper theft and vandalism in the first half of the year, marking a 78% rise compared to the same period in the previous year.
The majority of these thefts occurred in Ontario and New Brunswick, accounting for approximately 85% of the overall increase in thefts. In Ontario, areas such as Hamilton, Niagara, and Milton experienced the highest number of thefts, while in New Brunswick, the issue escalated rapidly with a 235% surge in thefts since 2025.
Criminals typically target copper wire from telephone and telecommunication poles, exploiting nighttime or rural locations with less visibility. The demand for copper remains high due to its value as a recycled metal, driven by the global trend towards increased electrification, such as the expansion of data centers and the production of electric vehicles.
According to David Joice, Bell’s director of national network operations, the insufficient mining of new copper has led to elevated metal prices, contributing to the rise in theft incidents. Gary Dvorkin, the owner of Peel Scrap Metal in Oakville, Ontario, noted a steady increase in the volume of copper processed by his business, reflecting the lucrative nature of copper recycling.
Although the financial gains from copper theft can be tempting, Bell emphasizes that the harm caused by service outages far outweighs the minimal value of the stolen metal. These disruptions can sever access to essential services like emergency communication, posing a potential public safety hazard.
To combat these thefts, Bell has implemented various preventive measures, including enhanced surveillance, alarm systems linked to law enforcement, and legal actions against offenders. The company is also transitioning from copper wire to fiber-optic cables to deter future thefts. Additionally, arrests related to copper theft have risen by 32% in the first half of the year, indicating the effectiveness of enforcement efforts.
In line with efforts to deter copper theft, the federal government has introduced justice reform measures allowing judges to consider aggravating factors, such as damage to infrastructure, in sentencing individuals involved in such crimes. Collaborative efforts involving telecommunications providers, law enforcement, governments, recyclers, and communities are essential to combat copper theft and safeguard critical networks.
