Bell has reported a significant increase in incidents of copper wire thefts impacting its telecommunications infrastructure in 2026, leading to potential disruptions in phone and internet services. The company documented 993 instances of theft and vandalism between January and June, marking a substantial 78% rise compared to the previous year. The majority of these thefts occurred in Ontario and New Brunswick, contributing to an 85% increase in thefts within these provinces.
Specifically, regions such as Hamilton, Niagara, and Milton in Ontario experienced the highest number of thefts, while New Brunswick witnessed a notable surge of 235% in thefts compared to the prior year. According to Bell’s director of national network operations, David Joice, thieves typically target copper wire mainly from telephone and telecommunication poles during nighttime or in rural areas with fewer witnesses due to the metal’s lucrative resale value. The escalating demand for copper, driven by factors such as the expansion of data centers and the production of electric vehicles, has further increased its market price.
Gary Dvorkin, the owner of Peel Scrap Metal in Oakville, Ontario, highlighted the imbalance between the rising demand for copper and its limited mining output, leading to sustained high prices for the metal. He mentioned a steady increase in the volume of copper processed by his business, emphasizing the financial incentive for individuals given the current market prices. Nevertheless, Bell stressed that the financial gain from copper theft is insignificant compared to the considerable disruptions caused by such criminal activities.
The theft of copper wires not only results in service outages affecting phone, internet, and TV services but also poses potential risks to public safety by impeding access to emergency services. Bell’s executive vice-president and chief technology officer, Mark McDonald, emphasized the need for collaborative efforts among telecommunication providers, governments, law enforcement agencies, recyclers, and communities to combat copper theft and safeguard vital networks.
To mitigate theft incidents, Bell has implemented various preventive measures, including enhanced alarm systems linked to law enforcement, heightened ground surveillance, and legal actions against suspected thieves. The company is also transitioning from copper wire to more secure fiber-optic cables. Notably, the number of arrests related to copper theft has increased by 32% in the first half of the year, reflecting ongoing enforcement initiatives. With recent justice reform legislation granting judges the authority to consider aggravating factors like infrastructure damage during sentencing, stricter penalties are anticipated for individuals involved in copper theft activities.
