Bell has reported a significant increase in incidents of copper wire thefts within its telecommunications network in 2026, leading to potential disruptions in phone and internet services. The company has documented 993 cases of theft and vandalism between January and June, marking a 78% rise compared to the same period last year. The majority of these thefts occurred in Ontario and New Brunswick, accounting for approximately 85% of the overall increase.
In Ontario, areas such as Hamilton, Niagara, and Milton experienced the highest number of thefts, while New Brunswick saw a notable surge of 235% in theft incidents from the previous year. According to David Joice, Bell’s director of national network operations, thieves typically target copper wire from telephone and telecommunication poles, taking advantage of nighttime or rural settings with less visibility.
The demand for copper has escalated due to global electrification trends, including the expansion of data centers and electric vehicle production, leading to increased value for the recycled metal. Gary Dvorkin, owner of Peel Scrap Metal, notes that the supply of new copper has not kept pace with demand, contributing to elevated prices. Bell emphasizes that while copper theft may yield monetary gains, the resultant service disruptions pose a significant public safety risk.
To combat these thefts, Bell has implemented security measures such as alarm systems linked to law enforcement, enhanced surveillance, and legal actions against alleged perpetrators. The company is also transitioning from copper wire to fiber-optic cables to deter thefts. Additionally, arrests related to copper theft have risen by 32% in the first half of the year, reflecting ongoing enforcement initiatives.
Efforts to address copper theft involve collaboration among telecommunications providers, governments, law enforcement, recyclers, and communities to safeguard vital networks. Legislative changes, including harsher penalties for infrastructure damage caused by copper theft, aim to deter such criminal activities and protect critical services.